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THE 

PICTURE 

OF 

PHILADELPHIA, 

GIVIjYG AJ^ ACCOUMT of its OIIIGIJV, IJ\TEEASE 
AJ^B IMPROVEMEJ^TTS 

m ARTS, SCIENCES, MANUFACTURES, 

COMMERCE AND REVENUE. 
WITH A COMPENDIOUS 

VIEW OF ITS SOCIETIES, 

LITERARY, BENEVOLENT, PATRIOTIC, & RELIGIOUS, 

ITS POLICE-THE PUBLIC BUILDINGS— THE PRISON AND 

PENETENTIARY SYSTEM— INS! ITUTIONS, 

MONIED AND CIVIL— MUSEUM. 



BY JAMES MEASE, M. D. 



PHILADELPHIA : 

PUBLISHED BY B. & T. KITE, NO. 20, N. THIRD-STREET. 
For Sale by them and Joseph Delaplaine, 

1811. 







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DISTmCT OF PEJ^'JVSYLVAjXM, to ivJu 

BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the seven, 
teenth day of September, in the thirty-sixth year 
, of the independence of the United States of Ame- 
rica, A. D. 1811, Benjamin and Thomas Kite, of the 
said district, have deposited in this office the ti- 
tle of a book, the right whereof they claim as pro- 
prietors, in the words following-, to wit : "The Picture of Phi- 
ladelphia, giving- an account of its origin, increase and, improve- 
ments in arts, sciences, manufactures, commerce and revenue. 
With a compendious view of its societies, literary, benevolent, 
patriotic, and religious. Its police-^the public buildings — the 
prison and penetentiary system— institutions, monied and civil — 
museum. By James Mease, M.i)," 

In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, 
intituled, " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by secu- 
ring the copies of maps, charts and books, to the authors and 
proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned." 
And also to the Act, entitled, " An Act supplementary to an 
Act, entitled " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by 
securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors 
and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mention- 
ed," and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing-, 
eT.graving-, and etching historical and other prints." 

D. CALDWELL, 
^^^Slerk of the District of Pennsyl'vanla,. 
ESTATE OF 
V/lUlAlW C. RiV^ 
APRit, 1»^ 



m 
i 



n 



CONTENTS 



Introductory History, _ _ - - - i 

Topographical Description, - - - - 15 

Various Plans of the City, - - - - - 17 
General Description - - - - - -20 

Plan of the Wards, 29 

Population, -------30 

Number of Houses, - - - - - -32 

Table of Progressive Population, _ - - id. 

Deaths in 1793, 1797, 37 

Causes of Increase of Population, - - - 38 

Climate, - - - - - - - -40 

Diseases and Mortality, ----- 45 

Bills of Mortality, ----- 47 

Comparative Health of Philadelphia and New York, 5 1 
Commerce, ~- - - - - - -52 

Exports, -----... 53 

Tonnage, - 54 

PricesCurrent, in 1720, 1798 Sc 1811, - - 55 

Inspection of Beef and Pork, - - - - 56 

^ — Flour, - _ - - - - - 57 

—■ Shad and Herring, - - _ - go 

— — Butter, - - - - - - 61 

• • Flax-seed, - - - - - 62 

'- ' Shingles, 63 

■ Lumber, . - - . ^ ib. 

Measurer of Grain, Weigh Masters, ~ ^ ^ 67 



iv CONTENTS. 

Chamber of Commerce, ----- 67 

Survey of Damaged Ships and Cargoes, - '' - 68 

Wardens of the Port, . _ - . - 70 

Pilots, - » - - » - - - 71 

Harbour Master, - - - - - -73 

Manufactures, ------- 74 

Breweries — Distilleries, ----- 77 

Abstract of the Marshal's Report, - - - 79 

Press— History — Progress — Present State, - 80 

News-papers in Philadelphia, (See Appendix^ - 83 

Periodical works, formerly published in Philadelphia, 84 

Present Periodical Publications, - - - 87 

Former Government in Philadelphia, - - 88 

Present Government of the City, - - - 92 

• " ' of South wark, - - - 93 

' ' Northern Liberties, - - ib. 

Circuit and District Courts, - - - - ib. 

STATE LAW COURTS. 

L Civil Courts, - - - = . - 98 

2. Common Pleas, - - « - - - 99 

3. District Court, - - - - - - 99 

4. Criminal Courts, -- » - --101 

BANKS. 

.!. Of North America, - .» - - 103 

2. Of Pennsylvania, - - - » - -105 

3. Of Philadelphia, - - - - - - 106 

4. Farmers and Mechanics, =• - - - lOf 

INSURANCE OFFICES. 

1. Insurance Company of North America, • - 108 

2. Insurance Company of Pennsylvania, » - 109 

3. Union Insurance Company, - » - - ib. 

4. Phoenix Insurance Company, = - - ib, 

5. Delaware Insurance Company, - - - 1 1 1 

6. United States Insurance Company, - - ib* 

7. Marine Insurance Company, . - - 112 



CONTENTS. V 

8. Lancaster and Susquehanna Insurance Company, ib. 

9. Mutual Fire Assurance Company, - - 114 

10. American Fire Insurance Company, - - 115 

11. Phoenix Company of London, - - - 116 

Markets — ^Provisions, - - - - - ?*5. 

Preservation of the Peace, ----- 123 

Constable's Elections, - * - - - ib. 

City Commissioners, - - - - - \9A 

Watching and lighting, - - - - - 124 

Cleansing the Streets, - - - - - 125 

Fuel — Wood Corders — Public Landings, - - ib. 

Sale of Bread, - 128 

Protection of Mechanics and Labourers, - - 130 

Storing of Gun Powder, - - - - - ib. 

Boiling of Oil of Turpentine and Varnish, - - 1 3 1 

Health Law, - ib. 

Provision against Fire, - - - - - 137 

Hose Companies, (^'ce ^;^/?(?7zrffa-.) - - - 138 

Wooden Buildings — Law on, - - - - 1 40 

Weights and Measures, - - - - - 1 4 1 

Auctioneers, - - - - - - -144 

City Surveyors, - - - - . - 145 

Water-works, -- - - -- -J47 

Mint, - - . . - - . - 154 

Jail and Penetentiary System, - - - - 158 

Law for Debtors, - - - - - - 186 

Elections, - - - - _ - -191 

Revenue and Expenditure, - - - - 193 

Sinking Fund, - - - » . > - 195 

Taxes and mode of Assessing, - - - - 196 

Religious Societies, - - - - - -199 

Places of Worship, ; •- - - - - - 217 

Remarks on Spirit of Toleration, ~ - - 223 

Charitable Institutions, - - - - -224 

i. Pennsylvania Hospital, - - - - - ib. 

2. Philadelphia Dispensary, - . _ _ 236 

3. Humane Society, - - - - - - 240 

Society for Vaccinating the Poor, - > _ 343 

Charitable Society, ---»„,. 



tI ^ GONTENTS. 

Abolition Society, - - - " . * 

Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Prisons, - 243 

Magdalen Society, - - - - - - 245 

PRIVATE AND ENDOWED INSTITUTIONS. 

1. Friend*s Alms House, ----- 245 

2. Christ Church Hospital, - - - - 247 

ASSOCIATIONS FOR GENERAL CHARITY. 

1 . Female Society for the Employment of the Poor, 247 

2. Female Hospitable Society, - . - - 248 

0. Female Association, - - « - - 250 

FREE SCHOOLS. 

1. Sunday School Society, - - - - 251 

2. Philadelphia Society for the establishment and 

support of Charity Schools, „ - - 252 

3. Aimwell School Society, - . . - 254 

4. Philadelphia Union Society, - - - - 257 

5. St. Joseph's Society, - ... - 258 

6. Adelphi School, --..--. 259 
Public Provision for Free Education, -^ - - 262 
Schools for the Education of Blacks, - - - id, 

PATRIOTIC SOCIETIES. 

1. Domestic Society, ... - - 264 

2. Agricultural Society, - - - - -266 

3. Cattle Society, - - - - - - id, 

MUTUAL BENEFIT aOCIETIES. 

1. Of Carpenters, .----» 267 

2. Ship Master's Society, - - - - 268 
;>. Pilot's Society, ------ 270 

4. Mariner's Society, - - ^ - - id, 

5. Stone-cutter's Society, - - - -id. 

6. Bricklayer's Society, - - ■» - - 27f 



eONTEWrs. iai 

1, Hair-dresser's Society, » = - - %ll% 

8. Typographical Society, - - - - ib. 

9. Master Taylor's Society, - - - - 274 

10. Provident Society of House Carpenters, - ib, 

11. Master MechaBJc's Society, ^ - » 275 
Societies of various other Mechanicsj - - - 276 

OTHER MUTUAL BENEFIT SOCIETIES. 

1. Provident, - - - - - - - 276 

2. Philanthropic, - 277 

3. Columbian Benevolent, « - - , ib. 
Several others, ------- 278 

Summary of their Constitutions, - - - - 278 
Society of Masons, - - - - - -288 

ASSOCIATIONS FOR RELIEF OF FOREIGNERS. 

1. St. Andrews, ------ 280 

2. St. George, 281 

3. Welsh, ib. 

4. Hibernian, ------- i^. 

5. German Incorporated Society, - - . 283 

MUTUAL BENEFIT SOCIETIES OF FOREIGNERS ANB 
THEIR DESCENDENTS. 

1. United German Benefit Society, - - - 28-3 

2. German American Mutual Assistant Society, - 284 

3. Caledonian Society, ----- ii5. 

4. Scots Thistle Society, - - - - -285 

5. St. Patrick's Benevolent Society, - - - 287 

6. Society de Bienfaisance, » - . » ib. 

Bible Society, ------- ?d. 

Provision for the Poor, - - - » -292 

Private Provision for the Poor, - - - - 338 

1 . Fund for supplying the Poor with Fuel, - - 340 

2. Fund to relieve the Poor placed in the City Hos- 

pital, during the prevalence of the Yellow 

Fever, - * - - » = - 341 



ftii CONTENTS. 



LITERARY INSTITUTIONS. 

1. Friend's School, » = »--- 29S 

2. University of Pennsylvania, - - - ' ib. 

3. American Philosophical Society, _ - - 30® 

4. Medical Society, ------ 302 

5. College of Physicians, - » - - - ib. 

6. Medical Lyceum, ------ 303 

7. Liimean Society, - - - - - - ib. 

LIBRARIES. 

1 . Philadelphia Library, 305 

2. Logaiiian, do. ----- - 308 

3. Friend's, do. - - - - - - 310 

Peale's Museum, - - - - - -311 

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, - - - 314 
Society of Artists, 316 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

Old Court House, ------ 

State House, - - - - - - 

Old College, -----.. 

Bank of the United States, _ _ _ . 

Pemisylvania, - - > _ > 

" Philadelphia, . - - . . 

County Court House and City Hall, - - 
University of Pennsylvania, - - _ _ 

Independent Tabernacle, - - - - 

Baptist Church, - - - ^ _ . 

Theatre, ------__ 

Circus, -»-_--__ 
Masonic Hall, -----._ 

City Hospital, - ~ - - . . „ 



CONTENTS. ix 

Literary Characters, - - - - -336 

Franklin's Legacy, - - - - - -338 

John Keble's Legacies, ----- 342 

Tours in the Vicinity of Philadelphia, - - 344 

APPENDIX. 

Omission respecting the proposer of Hose Companies. 
Notice of St. Michael's Church. 
Notice of Aitken's Bible, of 1782. 
Correction respecting the Streets. 



PREFACE 



IN composing a work like the present, the au- 
thor is of opinion that the chief object ought to be 
the multiplication of facts, and that the reflections 
arising out of them, should be leit to the readero 
He has, therefore, avoided making any remarks upon 
subjects treated of, except in a few instances where 
they were in a measure drawn from him by the oc- 
casion, and where it was thought they v/ould elu- 
cidate what had preceded. Aware oi the inaccuracy 
of tradition, he has cautiously admitted some nar- 
rations of occurrences among the early settlers, 
and has intentionally omitted others which, after a 
minute investigation, he found could not be sup- 
ported. He is conscious, however, that he might 
have rendered his detail of " old times" more in- 
teresting, if he had been favoured with the docu- 
ments which, he supposes, must remain in the fa- 
milies of the original settlers, and which he flatter- 
ed himself would have been ofl'ered, v/hen it was 
known that an attempt was about to be made to 
trace the progress of the city from its settlement 
to the present time. 

Upon some subjects he has forborn to speak, be- 
cause he found that in considering them, he could 
not be moderate. He will only mention one ; the 
public squares : — the prostitution of which, in the 



xii PREFACE, 

thickly settled parts of the city, and the neglect t© 
enclose and plant the rest, in order to prepare for the 
comfort and health of a population, rapidly in- 
creasing, loudly call for reprehension. — European 
nations will hear with astonishment, that out of the 
five squares, expressly set apart, by the benevolent 
founder of the city, tor the purpose of public walks, 
and the salutary recreation oi future generations, not 
one has been exclusively appropriated to its des- 
tined object! — that parts oi some of them have 
been applied to the most injurious uses ; and that 
even an open space near the Delaware, in ihe south- 
ern part of the city, also left for general benefit, has 
been rented for a board yard ! ! 

The example set by the city of New York is 
praise-worthy in the highest degree, and deserving 
of imitation by a city which boasts, (and with much 
propriety), of many excellent establishments, tend- 
ing to promote and preserve health and general 
comfort. 



PICTURE 



OF 



PHILADELPHIA. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

WE are indebted for the discovery of tlie river 
Delaware, to the commercial spirit which was roused 
in England by Sir Walter Raleigh, in the year 1584. 
Some of the expeditions of that enterprising, but 
unfortunate man, were attended with singular cala- 
mity ; but the hopes of better fortune, induced others 
to persevere in exploring the same quarter of the 
globe ; and in consequence of the success that at- 
tended the voyages of some private adventurers ironi 
England to the northern parts ol the present United 
States, application was made to King James the first, 
by several merchants to incorporate them for the 
purpose of trading to Virginia, by which name the 
countr)" in general was knov/n. Two companies were 
accordingly iormed ; one designated by the name 
of the ^r*^ 6'o/(5;'7?/, with liberty to begin their first 
settlements at any place between the 34th and 41st 
degrees of North latitude. A second Colony had 
permission to settle between 38° and 45° of North 
latitude:— This company taking the name of the 

A 



2 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

South Virginia company, commenced their first voy- 
age in 1606, and discovered the Capes of Virginia, 
and proceeding up James river, planted themselves 
at James Town. 

Henry Hudson, with the design of finding a 
North West passage to the East indies, left the 
Texel in 1609, but it does not appear from his 
journals, whether he was employed by the E. India 
Company, or by an individual. Having failed in the 
object oi: his voyage, he followed the tract of the 
Cabots ; coasted along the shores of Newfound- 
land, and proceeding southwardly, anchored off the 
D el aware. 

In 1610, Thomas West, Lord Delawar, was ap- 
pointed Governor by the South Virginia company, 
who falling in with the land about two degrees to the 
Northward of the Ca.pes of Virginia, discovered 
a capacious Ba}^, and named it after hiinseli. 

The Dutch government purchased the right of 
Hudson's discoveries, and incorporated a company 
in 1621, for trading to the country. The particu- 
lar progress they made cannot now be ascertained, 
neither is it oi much consequence. W^e know cer- 
tainly, that they gave the name of New Nether- 
lands to all the country from New York to the Dela- 
ware, and some distance south of it : and that in 1623 
they took possession oi the Delaware, which they 
named Ziiydt river, in opposition to the Hudson, 
which w^as called North river. At that early peri- 
od, they built lort Nassau, at, or near Gloucester, 
on the Jersey shore, about three miles below the pre- 
sent City of Philadelphia. 

In 1627", the first colony of Swedes arrived, and 
landing at the interior cape of Delaware bay, named 
it Point Paradise. William Useling, a Dutchman who 
had previously visited the country, appears to have 
excited the Swedes, to emigrate to the new world, 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 3 

and a large company was formed of the first people 
in Sweden, under whose auspices the enterprize was 
commenced.'^ 

In 1630, under the direction of Peterson deVries, 
the Dutch extended their settlements up the Dela- 
ware, on the Western side, as far as Bompt-Hook, 
the place now known by the name Bom.bay-Hook, 
which they called Swandale. The eastern cape of 
the bay they called Cape-May, after Cornelius Jacobs 
May, an early Dutch American navigator. The 
Bay was named Nieii Port May, and Godyiis Bay, 
from Samuel Godyn, an eminent merchant oi Amster- 
dam, who was greatly interested in the first settle- 
ment of the New Netherlands, and is frequently men- 
tioned by P. de Vries in his account of the country. 

In 1631, the Swedes built a fort on Manquas 
creek, and called it after their queen, Christiana : 
here they made their first regular settlement, which 
has been continued to the present time, and by the 
same name. They finally fixed their head quarters 
at Fort Gottemburgh, on the Island of Tinnicum, 
about twelve miles below the present City of Phi- 
ladelphia.! 

A church of v/ood was erected at Tinnicum, and 
consecrated September 4, 1646. The Swedes at that 
time had several small settlements higher up the 
river, and a few forts, viz, at Korsholin on Fassa- 
jung ; another on Manajung, (Schuylkill,) one at 
Chinsessing, (Kingsess.) Ouvtlie Jersey side they 
built fort Elsinburgh, and settled various places be- 
tween that and Cape May. The country generally, 
was called New Sweden : the river New Swedeland 
stream ; and by these names they described the 



* Holm's description of New Sweden. Stockholm 1702. 
f Near the Lazaretto. — The remains of the inhabitants are 
occasionally discovered there at this day. 



4 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

country in the works which they published respecting, 
it in Sweden. Governors were regularly appointed 
in Sweden. John Printz was their first Governor, 
and until 1654. 

The Dutch built a fort at Hoerkill, on the west 
side of the Capes, in 1630, but appear to have giv- 
en the preference to New York, as a place of resi" 
dence, owing to the greater facilities it afforded for 
the purposes of commerce. They however, omitted 
no opportunity to assert their right to the country 
on the South River, as appears by a letter of Gover- 
nor Kieft, from New Amsterdam, to P. Minuitts, 
Governor of New Sweden, in 1638 : in which he 
asserts, " that the whole south river of New Neth- 
erlands, had been in the Dutch possession many 
years, above and below, beset with forts, and sealed 
with their blood."^ And in 1642, the colonists from 
Maryland, having settled on Schuylkill, Keift fitted 
out tv/o sloops to drive them away ; a measure which 
the Swedes were either unwilling to undertake, or 
unable to accomplish. The mother countries, howe- 
ver, appear to have deemed it most prudent to permit 
the colonists to settle their own disputes ; for in the 
treaty of peace between the Swedes and Dutch, in 
1640, held at Stockholm, no notice was taken of 
American affairs. 

In 1651, the Dutch erected a trading house on 
the spot where the town of New Castle is novvr sit- 
uated. Printz, the Swedish governor, on Tinnicum, 
contented^ himself with formally protesting against 
the incroachment ; but not accompanying his paper 
by more weighty considerations, he was disregarded. 
Risingh, his successor in the government, came be- 
fore the fortress, fired a salute, and landed thirty 
men, who were entertained by the commandant as 



* Smith's Histoi-vof New York. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. S 

friends : but having discovered the weakness of the 
garrison, he seized upon it, and compelled some of 
the people to swear allegiance to his queen^. This 
conquest, however, was of short duration ; for in the 
year 1655, the Dutch West India Company deter- 
mining to recover their possessions, applied to the 
city of Amsterdam for assistance, and sent governor 
Stuyvezant with six or seven vessels, and seven hun- 
dred men, to the Delaware, where he arrived on 
the ninth of September. Having anchored his fieet^ 
and landed the troops, a demand was made of the 
fort. The commander Suen Scutz, was a soldier by 
profession, and had lost a leg in the Dutch service. 
But though probably not deficient in courage, nor in- 
disposed to defend his post, yet perceiving his for- 
ces so inferior to that of his enemy, as to render re- 
sistance of no avail, he prefered an honourable cap- 
itulation to the useless waste of human life. He 
therefore surrendered on the 16th September. Four 
fourteen pound cannon, five swivells, and some small 
arms, composed the list of offensive v/eapons found 
in the fort. Risingh commanded at Christiana, which 
also surrendered on the 25th of the same month. 
Finally, fort Gottemburgh, on Tinnicum, was deliv- 
ered up, and razed : all the houses outside of the 
fort destroyed ; and to prevent further attempts on 
the part of the Swedes, to regain possession, the ofii- 
cers and principal persons were shipped to Nev/ 
Amsterdam, and thence to Europe. Thus the Dutch 
became masters of all the country on the west side 
of the Delaware, which was for a time govjerned 
by the deputies of the Company's Director General 
at New Amsterdam, from whom the titles of many 
tracts of land may be traced to this day. 

In 1664 Charles the Second of England gave a 
large tract of land including all the country knowai 



* Holm's description of New Sweden. 
A 2 



6 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

by the name of New Netherlands to his brother 
James, Duke of York, mider whose direction an ex- 
pedition consisting of four ships and 300 men, com- 
manded by Colonel NichoUs, was sent against the 
colony. After receiving possession of the fort at New 
Amsterdam, from Stuyvezant, he dispatched Sir 
Robert Carr with the ships to the Delaware, who ex- 
perienced no opposition from the settlers, and on 
the first of October took possession of New-Ams- 
tel (now New Castle) after articles of capitulation, 
of the most liberal nature had been signed; Nicholls 
was appointed governor, and acted as such until the 
year 1688, when he was succeeded by Carr. In 1672 
v/ar having taken place between England and the 
Dutch, the latter sent a few ships against New-Yoik. 
The commander Manning, through treachery sur- 
rendered the fort wiihout resistance: the people on 
Delaware again changed masters, and sent deputies 
to New Amsterdam declaring their submission, but 
in the space of a few months in consequence of a trea- 
ty of peace between England and the States Gene- 
ral, they were again restored to the British, and 
Captains Cantwell and Tom deputed by the govern- 
ment of New-York, to take possession of the coun- 
try on the Delaware. A well known creek in Dela- 
w^are, bears the name of the first, and a river in New- 
Jersey perpetuates that of the last. 

Peace was thus restored to the harassed emigrants, 
who continued to extend their settlements up the 
river, and to cultivate the friendship of the natives. 

The father of William Penn was an admiral in the 
serviceof England, and was second in command under 
James Duke of York in 1665, in the engagement 
with, and victory over the Dutch fleet commanded 
by Van Opdam. He had also served in several dis- 
tinguished offices at home, and had lent a conside- 
rable sum of money to the crown. At the time of his 
death, there were also arrearages to a large amount 
due to him, for pay. William Penn himself had in 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 7 

common with the religious persuasion of which he 
was a member, suffered considerable persecution; and 
perceiving an opportunity of obtaining some remune- 
ration for his father's debts, and an assylum for him- 
self and oppressed friends by a grant of part of the 
New World, petitioned King Charles the Second in 
June 1680 for a tract of land lying North of the 
patent previously granted to Lord Baltimore, boun- 
ded by the Delaware on the East. This request was 
accordingly granted, and letters patent for the desi- 
red tract passed the great Seal on the fourth of March 
1681. 

The considerations stated, were " the commenda- 
ble desire of William Penn, to enlarge the British 
Empire, and promote useful commodities ; to reduce 
the savage natives by just and gentle manners to 
the love of civil society and christian religion," to- 
gether with " a regard to the memory and merits of 
his late father." 

A brief account of the country was immediately 
published, and lands offered for sale on the low terms 
of forty shillings per hundred acres, and one shilling 
per annum for ever. Adventurers numerous, and 
many of them wealthy and respectable, soon offered, 
with whom, articles of agreement were entered in- 
to and published under the title of " conditions or 
concessions" chiefly respecting rules of settlement, 
a just and friendly conduct towards the natives, with 
some injunctions as to the preservation of internal or- 
der, and keeping the peace, agreeably to the customs, 
usages and laws of England. 

In May 1681 Penn detached Markham, his rela- 
tion with a small emigration in order to take posses- 
sion of the country and to prepare it for a more nu- 
merous Colony."^ 

In April 1682 was published "the first frame of 
government of the province, consisting of twenty- 



* Chalmer's annals, p. 640. 



8 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

four articles. A body of laws was also agreed upon 
in England with the adventurers, and published in 
the succeeding month. They were partly of a po- 
litical, partly of a moral, and partly of an economi- 
cal nature, and have been noticed by an acute histo- 
rian, as "doing honour to their wisdom as statesmen, 
to their morals as men, to their spirit as Colonists." 
" A plantation" he adds, " reared on such a seed 
plot, could not fail to grow with rapidity, to advance 
to maturity, to attract notice of the world.^ 

Three ships with a body of adventurers sailed 
in 1681, two of which arrived that year. One, the 
Bristol Factor, brought to, off Chester Creek, and the 
river freezing the same night, they went on shore, 
and remained there all winter.f The John and Sarah 
from London had previously arrived. The other ship 
having been blown off to one of the West India 
Islands, arrived in the following year. 

The commissioners appear to have been on board 
the latter ship, for their arrival is mentioned as hav- 
ing taken place in June 1682. William Penn him- 
self having been detained by a variety of concerns, 
did not embark until the month of August following. 
Previously to which he procured of the Duke of 
York, a release of his claim upon the province which 
he or his successors might have in consequence of 
the deed to him for the same by King Charles. In 
the same year he obtained from the Duke a grant for 
the land now the State of Delaware, and in the 
month and year just mentioned, embarked in the ship 
Welcome, Robert Greenway, master, with upwards 
of one hundred passengers, for the New World. 
In six weeks thev saw the wished for coast, and on 
the 24th of October 1682, he landed at New-Castle 
in Delaware. 



* Chalmer's annals, p. 643- t Proud 1. p. 193. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 9 

Whatever impressions the inhabitants may have 
received of their future governor from, his friends 
who had preceded him, his conduct on his arrival 
v^as sufficient to ensure their attachment. His fleet 
though numerous, was unaccompanied by a single 
ship of war; their fears therefore, if any existed res- 
pecting a hostile assertion of his right must have 
subsided at once. The day subsequent to his arrival 
he summoned the inhabitants, and formally received 
the country of them ; a promise of perpetuating their 
spiritual and temporal rights was made, and the com- 
missions of all the magistrates renewed. 

It was a happy circumstance that out of twenty 
three ships which composed the fleet of emigrants, 
not one was lost. Penn had the satisfaction as he 
proceeded to find every disposition on the part of the 
original settlers, Dutch and Swedes to welcome his 
arrival, and to submit to his authority. The Swedes 
in particular, who were by far the most numerous, 
volunteered their services in unloading the vessels, ^ 
and in furnishing the passengers with accommoda- 
tions, until they could provide for themselves : and 
as a body, deputed Lacy Cock, one of their promi- 
nent characters, to Chester, to inform him, that " they 
would love, serve and obey him ;" and no doubt hap- 
py that the conflicting pretensions to the soil would 
probably now cease, they added " that it was the best 
day they had ever seen,^''-\ 

On the fourth of December 1682 he called an as- 
sembly at Upland, (now Chester,) and passed all the 
laws that had been previously agreed upon in England, 
with some others. The important consideration, the 
great incentive to emigration, claimed of course prima- 
ry attention. The law concerning liberty of con- 
science, was therefore placed at the head of the list. 



* Swedish records. f Proud 1. p. 206, 



10 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

This measure was very natural : the proprietary and 
his friends having suffered greatly on account of the 
difference of their religion, and mode of worship, 
from that of the established church in England, it 
was to be expected that provision should be made 
for the free exercise of forms of worship peculiar 
to all those who adventured their fortunes under 
his patronage. Some policy was also evinced in placing 
a law respecting a measure so dear to the colonists, 
at the head oi those by which they v/ere to be gov- 
erned, for mankind in all ages have evinced a great- 
er attachment to the enjoyment of their religion, 
than the preservation of their property. 

The title by which William Penn took possession 
of his territory was such as is deemed valid by allna- 
tions-a grant from his King, whose own title was deri- 
ved from the discovery of the country by his subjects, 
and by subsequent conquest from those who disputed 
his claim thereto ; but Penn thought it necessary to 
obtain an additional right from the aborigines of the 
soil by fair and open purchase, and thus says an elo- 
quent writer=^ "signalized his arrival by an act of equi- 
ty which made his person and principles equally belov- 
ed." This measure was so conformable to the pacific 
character and principles of Penn himself, that though 
certainly advised by the Bishop of London,f we 
cannot but believe would have been adopted oi his 
own accord. A treaty was therefore held with the 
natives, and the foundation of a friendship estab- 
lished between them, according to which says Penn 
they agreed to 'Mive in love as long as the sun gave 
light.'* ^It is not possible to find v/ords more ex- 
pressive than those adopted by the Indian orator 
on this occasion, and it Y/as a proof of the sincerity 
with which they were used, that no disposition ap- 



* Raynal's E. & W. Indies, B. I8th. f Peiin's letter. Proud 

I. p. 274. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 11 

peared on either side to interrupt their harmony du- 
ring the life time of any of the parties. The im- 
pression made upon the minds of the Indians was 
certainly strong respecting the justness and good 
will of Penn towards them, from their frequent men- 
tion of him in treaties held at various times for near 
a century after his death.^ The particular spot at 
which the first treaty was held, by tradition is said 
to have been under the venerable elm that lately 
stood on the Delaware shore at Kensington, but of 
this there is no record. The treaty however has 
been immortalized by the pencil of our celebrated 
countryman West; whose grandfather having been 
one of the first settlers, and a proininent character, 
was no doubt present at its ratification. 

Upon a survey of the land on the river, the pre- 
sent site of the City was perceived to be the most 
suitable place for the intended town. The approach 
of the two rivers, the short distance above the mouth 
of the Schuylkill ; the depth of the Delaware ; the 
land heavily timbered ; the existence of a stratum 
of brick clay on the spot ; immense quarries oi build- 
ing stone in the vicinity, all conspired to determine 
Penn in his choice of the spot, but the land was al- 
ready in possession of the Swedes, and justice requi- 
red that their wishes should be consulted respecting 
its occupancy. An exchange of the desired site was 
therefore proposed for land in the vicinity, and hav- 



* Of this there are many records m treaties pi'eserved. (See 
Prouds history vol. 1. p 214.) On one occasion they said "they 
should never forget the council that William Penn gave them, 
and that though they could not write, as the English did, yet 
they could keep in the memory, what was said in their councils." 
Brother Onas was the title by which they disting-uished Penn^ 
and after his death, the State. — In Indian, Onas signifies a Pen. 



12 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

ing been accepted, the City was laid out. It has 
been transmitted to us, that either under an appre- 
hension of the unwillingness of the proprietors to part 
with their land, or from their actual refusal, the com- 
missioners previously to the arrival oi Penn, had re- 
solved to establish the tov/n about twelve miles up 
the Delaware. 

Civilized nations have ever been anxious to be 
made acquainted with their origin, and to record 
their progress from the stages of rude society to 
comfort, riches, refinement. The history of the foun- 
ders of Philadelphia is short ; and yet when duly 
weighed is not without interest : for the hand of a 
particular Providence was more than once interposed 
in their behalf, a favour which the pious and grate- 
ful Quakers did not fail to acknowledge and record.* 

The fleet that accompanied Penn, after landing 
their goods at the inlet, now known by the name of 
the dock, then " a sandy heach^"^ were laid up for the 
winter in the creek now occupied by Dock street; the 
first attention of the passengers would of course be 
directed to the means of procuring a shelter from 
the elements. The attention of the aborigines was 
great, and the Swedes lent them every assistance, 
which their necessities required, or they themselves 
could afford. Their privations must nevertheless have 
been great. They had left comfortable homes, regu- 
lar establishments, and were now obliged to content 
themselves with bark huts, which the experience of 
the natives taught them to lashiOn ; or with caves, 
which they dug out of the high bank that overlooked 



* Townsend's testimony. Proud 1. p. 228. 



I^iTRODUGTOHY HISTOKY. 13 

the river Delaware, in which many of them passed 
the first winter. ^ 

They found a " sky as clear in winter, as in sum- 
mer, not foul thick or black," and the " air, though cold 
and piercing, yet did not require-more clothes than in 
England," a circumstance easily explained by the 
fact, that it was *' dry." The grateful nourishing- 
grain Mayz, or Indian corn, was found native, and 
wild animals abounded,! and such was their tame» 
ness, that they became an easy prey. The river fur- 
nished varieties of fish, the land was fertile, and as 
the habits of the settlers induced them to omit no 
opportunity of providing against the future, famine, 
which had desolated some of the other American 
colonies, never visited Pennsylvania. 

Dean Prideaux says:}: that Penn had the celebrated 
city of Babylon in view as a model for his American 
town, and from the draft given by the learned divine, 
the idea as far as regularity was concerned, appears 
to have been well founded. It would seem also that 
Penn wished, or thought it practicable to emulate the 
size at least of the Chaldean capital, for he gave or- 
ders to his commissioners to lay out a town in the 
proportion of two hundred acres for every ten thou- 
sand sold, in which the purchasers of five hundred 
acres were to have ten. The whole amount sold, 
having been nearly four hundred thousand acres, the 
city would have covered an area of eight thousand 



* In one of these caves tlie first Pennsylvanian, John Key was 
born, who lived to see a regular city built where a wilderness 

had stood. He died 1767, ag-ed 85. 

f Penn's letter to the society of " Free Traders." A deer 

cost two shilling's, a large turkey one shilling'; corn was two and 

sixpence per bushel — Tov/nsend's testimony in Proud's history,. 

vol. l.p.229. 

:| History of the coBnexioR of the old and new Testament, vol. -l. 

B 



14 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY, 

acres. It was soon perceived that a town in which 
some of the purchasers were entitled to 400 acres 
each, some to 200 acres, more to 100 and other large 
proportions, would never answer the end of a city 
in a new country, where from the numerous wants 
necessarily incident to first settlers in a wilderness, 
and especially of protection, trade, and society, a thick 
settled neighbourhood was ot the first consequence. 
Instead thereibre of a town of twelve and a hali square 
miles, which the original plan had it been executed, 
would have occupied, one of less than two square 
miles, or about twelve hundred acres was laid out. 
According to this plan, a draught of which was 
made by the surveyor general, Thomas Hohne, and 
is still extant, the city extended two squares over the 
Schuylkill ; this plan was transmitted by the pro- 
prietary to London, and there prefixed to a long 
printed letter addressed to a large company of ori- 
ginal purchasers under the title of '■'- the society of 
free traders," in which a general description of the 
country, its production, and of the natives is given. 
But this plan was again contracted, and by charter 
of 1701, the city was declared to be bounded by the 
two rivers Delaware and Schuylkill ; and Vine and. 
Cedar streets, as North and South boundaries. 

The first house erected in Phila.delphia was a 
v.^ooden one, on the East side of Front street, a little 
North of the place now called " the Dock ;'* and is 
said not to have been finished when Wm. Penn first 
arrived. The ov/ner, George Guest, kept a public 
house there, for many years ; his sign was a blue 
anchor ; this house in early times was a distin- 
guished place of resort from its vicinity ^ to one of 
the two landings, with which the town was accommo- 
dated. The back part of the house now occupied by 
J. Keen, currier, in Chesnut, opposite Carpenter's 
court, was among the first (if not the first) brick 



TOPOGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTION. 15 

buildings in the city ; it was built by David 
Brientnall. William Penn's country house was on 
the Delaware, at Pennsbury manor above Bristol, 
the frame of which had been sent out from England 
in the first fleet, but the building was not completed 
when he arrived. Here he had a large hall of audi- 
ence for the reception of the sovereigns of the soil, 
with whom nineteen treaties were held by him. His 
oaken arm chair is preserved in the Pennsylvania hos- 
pital. 

Topographical Dcscriptloiu 

Philadelphia lies on a plain nearly level, and on the 
Western bank of the river Delaware, in 39 degrees 57 
minutes of North latitude, and 75 degrees 8 min- 
utes of longitude, West of London. It is about 
120 miles distant from the ocean, by the course of 
the river, and 60 in a direct line : its elevation above 
low water mark ranges from two to forty-six feet, 
the highest part being between Seventh and Eighth 
streets, from Schuylkill. 

It derived its name from a citv in Asia Minor, 
celebrated in sacred history, for its having been the 

seat of an early christian church.^ The Indian 

name of the place where the city now stands, was 
Co-a-que-na-que. 

The immediate substratum of Philadelphia is 
clay of various hues and degrees of tenacity, mix- 
ed with more or less sand, or sand and gravel. 



* The city is about twenty-four miles East of Sardis, and 
seventy-two from Smyrna, and was the last city in those quar- 
ters that submitted to the Turks, after a terrible sieg-e of six years. 

It was to this church that St. John was directed to write a 
consolatory and directive epistle Rev. iii — 7- l3. The name is 
composed of two Greek words jPAi/o,yj a friend^ and Adeiphos, a 
brother. 



16 TOPOGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTIOX. 

Underneath, at various depths, fromr twenty to nearly 
forty feet, and also on the opposite shore of New- 
jersey, are found a variety of vegetable remains, 
Vi^hich evidently appear to have been left there in 
remote periods of time by the retiring waters : hickory 
nuts v/ere found a few years since in digging a well, 
upwards of thirty feet beneath the surface, and the 
trunk of a Sycamore (buttonwood) tree was discovered 
in Seventh near Mulberry street, near forty feet below, 
imbedded in black mud, abounding with leaves and 
acorns. About 60 feet distance from that place, and 
nearly at the same depth, a bone was found ; the 
stratum above was a tough potter's clay. In vari- 
ous other parts of the city, and even at the distance of 
several miles in the country, similar discoveries have 
been made. Shark's teeth are occasionally dug up many 
feet belov/ the surface, near Mount Holly. All these 
facts seem to prove the truth of the opinion first de- 
livered by our countryman, Lewis Evans, that the 
site of Philadelphia formed part of the sea, whose 
coast was bounded by a reef of rocks^, some two, 
three, or six miles broad, rising generally a lit- 
tle higher than the adjoining land, and extending 
from New York, westwardly by the falls of Dela- 
ware, Schuylkill, Susquehannah, Gunpowder, Pa- 
tapsco, Potomack, Rappahannock, James River, and 
Roanoak, which Avas the ancient maritime boundary, 
and forms a regular curve. The clay and other soil 
which compose the borders of the rivers descending 
from the upland through this tract, are formed bv 
the soil Vv^ashed dov/n with the floods, and mixed 
with the sand left by the sea. 



* They are formed of Gneiss, Micaceous SchisUis and othei 
primitive rocks. 



VARIOUS PLANS OF THE CITY.. 17 

A few streams of water originally crossed part of 
the city plot ; but these in the course of improvement 
have entirely disappeared. 

The depths of the wells are various in different 
parts of the city. In the vicinity of the river, water 
is found at the depth of ten or twelve feet. From the 
number of causes serving to contaminate the springs 
in all cities, the water may be reasonably supposed 
to be impure and of a disagreeable taste* In 1799 
Mr. Hunter, apothecary, evaporated 220 gallons of 
water from a pump in Second below Dock street, and 
found it to contain the following ingredients, 
12 oz. Chalk. 17 oz. Magnesia. 

32 oz. Salt Petre. 24 oz. Common sea salt» 

Various Plans of the City, 

The original plan was made by Thomas Holme^ 
the first Surveyor General, in the year 1683, and 
sent to England, where it was published, and annex- 
ed to William Penn's letter addressed to "the Soci- 
ety of Free Traders," who were the largest origi- 
nal purchasers of land. By this the city consisted of 
nine streets running East and West, including 
High street, near the centre of one hundred feet 
broad, and twenty streets (besides Broad street of one 
hundred feet,) crossing the others at right angles. 
Front street on both rivers was sixty feet broad, all 
the rest were fifty feet. In the center was left a square 
of ten acres, at each angle of which, public buildings 
were to be erected, and in each quarter of the city, a 
square of eight acres" for "the like uses as the Moor- 
fields in London."* How little this excellent pro- 

* Moorfields were the great g-ymnaslum of London, the resort 
of wrestlers, runners, and foot-ball players, and every manly re- 
dreation. — Pennant's account of London, 



18 VARIOUS PLANS OF THE CITY. 

vision has been attended to, will be seen in the 
sequel. 

In the year 1768 Nicholas Scull made a survey 
of the improved parts of the city, which then extend- 
ed no farther than Eighth street. It was published 
by the late Matthew Clarkson and Hannah Biddle, 
and is a useful document, as serving to shew the pre- 
cise state of improvement at that time. 

In the year 1796 John Hill published a large plan 
of the city. 

In the year 1794 Benjamin Davies published one, 
including theNorthern Liberties and Southwark, dis- 
tinguishing by shaded squares the parts then improv- 
ed. 

In 1808 Mr. Hill, above mentioned, published a 
map of a circle, ten miles round Philadelphia, inclu- 
ding New Jersey which gives a good idea of the 
country embraced by it. 

Mr. J. A. Paxton has recently published a very 
accurate map of the city and liberties, with a pam- 
phlet explanatory of the same, which cannot fail to be 
highly useful as a statistical document, and to stran- 
gers will be particularly valuable. 

In 1782, a law was passed for the regulation of 
the streets, of the natural water courses, and the 
common sewers ; and city regulators* appointed to 
execute the duty thus enjoined. By them the north 
and south lines of the city v/ere marked agreeably to 
law, and also the lines of all the streets, and plans 
formed of them, which are preserved in the city sur- 
veyor's office. 



* J. Lukens, David RittenhouSe, Thomas Neville^ William 
Moulder, and James Pearson. 



DELAWARE AND SCHUYLKILL* 19 

The river Delaware is formed by the union of 
two streams that take their origin in the state of 
New York, and flowing south, receives the Lexawac- 
sein creek in Wayne county, one hundred and 
fourteen miles above Easton : the Lehigh at Eas- 
ton sixty miles above Philadelphia, and the Schuyl- 
kill as already stated, six miles below the city, besides 
many creeks on the Jersey and Pennsylvania sides. 
Opposite to the city it is thirteen hundred and six- 
ty two yards wide, and so far is navigable for ves- 
sels of any tonnage : vessels of lesser burthen go thirty 
miles higher to Trenton falls, at which place the tide 
ceases. Off the city it rises five or six feet in common 
times, but during long continued and violent north- 
east winds, it rises from seven to nine feet. On the 
contrary, during strong north-west winds, very low 
tides have been known, and rocks have been discover- 
ed with the naked eye near the upper ferry on the Jer- 
sey shore. These were seen in March 1769, and again 
in March 1 796, They were then seven or eight feet 
out of water, and eighteen feet across, bearing the 
initials of many names. In February 1810, they were 
two feet out. The Indian name of the Delaware was 
Poutaxat. 

The Schuylkill, the western boundary of the city, 
rises in Luzerne county, one hundred and forty miles 
from its mouth. It is navigable irom the falls above 
Philadelphia in boats, about ninety miles. From its 
mouth, six miles below Philadelphia, to the falls, 
loaded sloops go up, a distance about seven miles. 
On a range with Vine street, it measures 1264 feet; 
on a range with Cedar street, it measures 2040 feet. 

Most of our rivers, retain their Indian names ; but 
Schuylkill signifies in low Dutch, a "hidden river," or 
hiding river, an appellation derived in all probability 
from the circumstance of the secret settlements of 
the people of Maryland upon its shores, or from its 



20 GENERAL DESCRIPTION, 

running into the interior, beyond the researches of 
the settlers. Dr. Collin=^ says that it was also called 
''Skaerkill," in the Swedish publications. Holme, in his 
mapf calls it Nittabaconck. Ma-nai-unk is another 
Indian name. 

General Description* 

Philadelphia now consists of the original nine 
streets running East and West from Delaware to 
Schuylkill, and thirteen crossing the others nearly at 
right angles : of the former, High street which is near 
the centre, is one hundred feet broad, and Mulberry:}: 
sixty-six feet : all the rest are fifty feet. Those running 
north and south are all fifty feet in breadth, except 
Broad street, which is one hundred and thirteen feet 
broad, Juniper street between Broad and Thirteenth 
street, which is twenty eight feet, and Front streets 
on both rivers which are sixty feet broad. 

There are also four streets that run to Schuylkill, 
from different distances eastward, viz. Lombard 
from Front street. Locust from the south-east pub- 
lic square ; George from Sixth street ; Filbert from 
Eighth street ; Cherry from third street j all these 
are about fitty feet wide except Cherry and George 
streets, which are about forty feet. There are thir- 
teen streets from Delaware to Broad street, and 
eight from the latter to Schuylkill. By the original 
plan as before noticed. Broad street was placed ex- 
actly in the middle, eleven streets being each side 
of it. 



* Minister of the Swedish church. 
t Inserted in his account of New Sweden. 
t This street has derived its name of " I\yq\\ street" from the 
circumstance of an arch having' been built under Front street to 
eifect a passage to the river. This arch was removed in 3720 by 
tte corporation of the City. 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 21 

The streets running east and west are named, with 
the exception of High street, from the native trees. 
Beginning at the northern boundary ; they are Vine, 
Sassafras, Mulberry, (High), Chesnut, Walnut, 
Spruce, Pine, and Cedar streets. Union street be- 
tween Spruce and Pine, was not an original street, 
and runs only from Front to Fourth street. The 
streets running north and south, derive their names 
from their numeral order, counting from each river, as 
Front, Second, Third, &c. The streets were laid out 
N. 18 degrees E. In 1742 they were found to be 
15 degrees E. At present they are nine degrees. — • 
The variation of the compass is two degrees west. 

Besides the foregoing, there are many other streets 
not in the original plot, that have been laid out either 
by the state government or individuals, some of which 
extend through from where they commence, to the 
Schuylkill, others only through one or more squares. 
Among these may be mentioned, that laid out by 
William Sansom, esq. situate between Chesnut and 
Walnut streets, and west of Seventh street. — It is 
sixty feet wide ; the houses are built agreeably to his 
plan, strictly uniform in height and external appear- 
ance. In Walnut also between seventh and eighth 
streets, and Second above Callowhill street, rows of 
houses have been built, or caused to be built by him, 
which have greatly tended to ornament the city, and 
accommodate the inhabitants. 

Of the north and south streets, three have been 
formed, in the following way. Originally the distance 
from Eleventh to Broad street was five hundred and 
twenty eight feet, but by a new applotment. Broad 
street was placed farther westward, and hence two 
ne¥/ squares were formed, tbgiLx a G^ urtmjygtJSt of which 
is three hundred and ninety-six feet long, and the 
w^est five hundred and twenty-eight feet ; through 
the middle of the latter, Juniper street was laid 



n GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

out by order of the executive council during the 
war. Twelfth and Thirteenth streets were added, of 
fifty feet each. Broad street v/as originally one hun- 
dred feet broad, but in regulating the several squares 
from Eighth street westy>^ard, thirteen feet of sur- 
plus ground v^ere found, which v/ere of course added 
to Broad street. 

Dock street is the only street in the city, not cross- 
ed by another at right angles. Beginning at the 
Bridge in Front sreet, it extends northward in a 
serpentine tract, through two squares, across Second 
and Walnut streets, and terminates at Third street ; 
another branch of it extends south v/estward, across 
Spruce street, and terminates at Second street ; the 
ground occupied by this street, and by an open space 
between it and Spruce street^ below the bridge, was 
formerly a swamp and was given by William Penn 
" for the common use and service of the city, and 
all others, with liberty to dig docks, and make har- 
bours lor ships and vessels, in all or any part of 
the said swam.pf". The creek it was supposed would 
prove a great convenience to the inhabitants, by the 
facility it would afford of transporting fuel to the 
interior ; and a wooden draw-bridge was erected near 
the mouth of the inlet, to admit craft up. The sides 
of the canal were also supported by stone walls: but 
the small force of the current favouring the di^osi- 
tion of the mud suspended in the water, occasioned 
a rapid accumulation of it, and at low water was high- 
ly offensive ; it was therefore at an early period arched 
Irom Third to Walnut street. In 1784, the arch was 
continued to near Spruce street. It was however used 
as a canal in early times, and a respectable citizen nov/ 
living, relates, that the late Israel Pemberton pointed 
out the place, v/here a sloop once lay that was 
consigned to him from Barbadoes, loaded with rum. 

* Now a board yarcL f Charter of the city. 



GEI^^ERAL DESCRIPTION. 2S 

It was on the spot where now stands the buildmg 
lately occupied by the United States bank.^ By the 
arching ot the dock, a handsome airy street, Irom 
ninety to one hundred feet wide, has been acquired. 
Water street, which is about thirty feet wide, 
runs from the North line of the Cxty, and beyond 
it, to the bridge landmg, formed no part of the 
original plan : it was left as a convenient communi- 
cation from the " Pennypot landing" at Vine street, 
to the " Blue Anchor," at the bridge ; the high bank 
along the Delaware, preventing access to the West- 
ward at other places. In the year 1684, an address 
had been presented to the proprietary by those con- 
cerned in the front lots, claiming the privilege to build 
stores against the bank ; and to use them as their 
right : in answer to which Penn declared his intention 
to reserve " the top of the bank, as a common exchange 
or walk," but permitted " stores to be built," expressly 
providing that they should not be raised higher than 
four feet above the bank. One of these stores built 
upon this plan, is to be seen at this day in front above 
Sassairas street. In 1690, during his residence in Eng- 
land, an appeal was made to the commissioners of pro- 
pertv, on the subject, who yielding to the solicitations 
of the inhabitants, formally granted, in writing, liberty 
to build as high as they pleased,provided they left thir- 
ty feet, oi ground for a cart way under and along the 
said bank for ever ; when necessary, they were re- 
quired to wharf out, in order to preserve the proper 
breadth : those willing to have steps up into their 
houses, were required to leave convenient room to 
make the same upon their own ground ; and between 
two adjoining public streets, there was to be left 

* After the creek had been stopped out, Mr. Pemberton occu* 
pied the ground as a garden, which ran parallel with Tliird 
street to his house, situated on the spot now occupied by the 
Farmers and Mechanics bank, and by the house east of it. 



24 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

at least ten feet of ground for a public stairs.^ 
clear of all buildings over the same. The permis- 
sion was gladly accepted, and the whole bank has in 
consequende, been built upon ; and not a house as 
far as Pine street, has a single foot of yard room. 

This deviation from the original plan is much to be 
regretted, as had that been adhered to, a pleasing view 
of the Delaware from Front street would have been 
obtained, and thus have not only added greatly to 
the beauty of the city, but have admitted a refresh- 
ing body of air from the river, and prevented the ac- 
cumulation of filth, which, to the great injury of the 
inhabitants, has, and ever will be the consequence of 
the erection of dwellings in such confined situations. 

Southward of Pine street, there is an oifset of 
about eighty feet eastward, and the street from thence 
to Cedar street, the southern boundary of the city, 
is forty-five feet wide, and called Penn street. 

The elevations of the streets and water courses 
are regulated by the mayor, recorder, and aldermen, 
with the assistance of city surveyors ; but the duty 
is in general entrusted to the latter, except on par- 
ticular occasions. 

In the beginning of the settlement it v/as expected, 
that the fronts on both rivers would be first improv- 
ed for the convenience of trade and navigation, and 
that the buildings would extend gradually in the rear 
of each until they would meet and form one town, 
extending from East to West, but experience soon 
convinced the settlers that the Delaware front was 
alone sufficient for quays and landing places, and 
that the Schuylkill lay at too great a distance to form 
part of the town on its banks ; the greater depth of 
water and the navigation of the Delaware were also 
reasons that soon operated with the settlers to cause 
a preference to be given to the eastern front ; whence 
it followed, that the town increased northward and 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 25 

southward of the original plot, upon the Delaware 
front, and now occupies a space nearly three miles in 
length, North and South, while the buildings in the 
middle, where they are most extended, reach little 
more than a mile from the Delaware. 

The wharves are built of square casements of logs, 
filled in with earth and stone. — The city is lighted by 
1132 lamps, inclosed in glass lantherns, fixed on the 
tops of posts placed on the edges of the foot-way. — - 
The lamps under the market houses are lighted every 
evening at dusk, and continue burning until daylight. 
The other lamps are lighted only on those nights 
when the moon does not give sufficient light — -14,355 
gallons of lamp-oil were used last year. 

The improved parts of the city are paved with 
round stones, brought from the bed of the river at 
Trenton falls. The foot-ways are paved with brick, 
and raised on a level with the highest part of the 
street, and defended from the approach of carriages 
by ranges of curb stone. The expense of these are 
borne by the owners of houses. The middle of the 
street is a few inches higher than the part next the 
pavement, and as the descent is gradual, the water runs 
oif with facility, and passes off by the culverts, (tfie 
mouths of which open in various streets) to the river. 
The houses are from two to four stories high, and 
are built of brick, the superiority of which is well 
known throughout the United States. 

In general, the houses are covered with cedar shin- 
gles, but slate is rapidly coming into use, and will it 
is hoped, be universally used. The style of architec- 
ture has hitherto been very plain, and a degree of 
uniformity has prevailed, which to intelligent stran- 
gers has always appeared a striking defect. The flights 
of steps and the cellar doors protruding into the 
pavement, and diminishing its breadth, are striking- 
errors. — -The internal construction of dwellings sel-- 

c 



26 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

dom permit the use of a stove in the entries, although 
obviously required by the nature of our climate, and 
essential to the comfort, nay health of delicate con- 
stitutions. 

Of late however, an evident improvement has ta- 
ken place, and there can be no doubt, that if a good 
example were set, an entire revolution would take 
place. The front walls of the houses are fourteen 
inches thick, and the internal walls nine inches. 

The edges of the pavements are planted in many 
streets with Lombardy Poplars, for the introduc- 
tion of which we are indebted to William Hamilton 
Esq. who brought them from England about the year 
1784. They serve not only greatly to ornament the 
city, but to promote public health by the circulation 
of air they produce, and the shade they afford during 
summer : — ^^enough to overbalance the trifling incon- 
venience arising from the tendency of the roots to 
force up the pavement, and which has been offered 
as an argument against their propagation in the 
city. 

The number of squares originally was 184, but at 
present they amount to 252, — Their dimensions are 
as follows, 

From Delaware Front street to 

Second street . . 396 Feet 

Second to Third . . 500 

Third to Fourth . . 37 S 

Fourth to Fifth . . 401 

Fifth to Sixth . . . 398 

Sixth to Thirteenth, each square is 396 

Thirteenth to Juniper . 250 

Juniper to Broad <, * 250 

Broad to Third, each . 396 

Third to Second » • 495 

Second to Front « , . 396 



GENERAL DESCRIPTIOX. 27 

The above squares are co-extensive with the city 
North and South. 

From Front to Ashton street 273 feet, at 

all places, except North of Sassafras and Vine, 
where the width of said square is only 264 feet 
Ashton to Beech . . 240 

Beech to Willow . . . 267 

Beech is open to Locust, and Willow to Pine street. 
The dimensions of the squares from North to 
South, according to Mr. Howell, city surveyor, are 
From Vine to Sassafras . . 632 feet 

Sassafras to Cherry » .288 

Cherry to Mulberry . 288 

Mulberry to Filbert . . 307 

Filbert to High . . 306 

High to Chesnut . . . 484 

Chesnut to George . . 235 

George to Walnut . • 235 

Walnut to Locust . . .370 
Locust to Spruce . . 400 

Spruce to Pine . . • 473 

Pine to Lombard . . . 282 
Lombard to Cedar . . 322 

From High to Vine street, the measurement was 
t;aken along the streets respectively in all parallels. — - 
From High street Southward, the measurement was 
taken along Broad street, and applies Eastward and 
Westward. — Thus the distance from the Northern /^^^ 
to the Southern boundary of the city proper is 4fSS9 '^T 0/ 
feet, and from Delaware to Schuylkill, along High 
street, is 4cr§©§- feet. /^^ J? «2 4 

Shortly after the incorporation of the city, a law 
was passed for numbering the houses, and marking 
the streets, lanes, and alleys at every intersection 
with each other, — a measure which together with the 
regularity of the streets, greatly facilitates the stran- 
ger in his search for a citizen. The numbers in the 



28 GENERAL DESCRIPTION, 

streets lying East and West, begin with No. 1, on 
the North; and No. 2, on the South sides at the 
river Delaware, or other Eastern commencement of 
the street, and proceed westward ; ail the houses 
marked with odd numbers, are on the North side of 
the way, and all those marked with even numbers^ 
on the South. 

The numbers in the streets lying North and South, 
begin at the corners of High street, with No. 1, on 
the East, and No. 2. on the West side. High street 
is considered as the middle line of division, and the 
parts of these lying North of it, has the addition of 
North to their names, and those lying South, the addi- 
tion of South ; the numbers proceed North and South 
from High street, having all the odd numbers on the 
East, and all the even numbers on the West side. 
A board is fixed up at every intersection, on which 
the names of the streets, crossing one another, are 
painted. 

Previously to 1800, the city was divided into 
wards in a very irregular manner, but in that year 
the following judicious arrangement was made. 

The city was divided into fourteen wards, seven 
of which commence at the river Delaware and end 
at Fourth street, and seven begin at Fourth street and 
continue to the river Schuylkill or western boundary 
of the city. The regular plan of the streets into North 
and South, East and West, favours this division, 
which will be readily understood by the following 
plan. 



PLAN OF THE 14 WARDS OF PHILADELPHIA. 2? 

NORTH. 



Vine 



Street, 



North Mulberry ward. 



Upper Delaware ward. 



Race 



or 



Sassafras Street, 



South Mulberry ward. 



Lower Delaware ward. 



Arch 



or ^ Mulberry Street, 

M 



North ward. 



Market 



High Streetward. 



or g High Street, 

■ o . — 

Middle ward. |w| Chesnut ward. 

^ : ft I ____«„ 



Chesnut 



South ward. 



Walnut 



Locust ward. 



o 

H 

w 

- H 

a 
o 



Street, 



Walnut ward. 



Street, 



Dock ward. 



Spruce 



Street, 



Cedar ward. 



New Market ward. 



South 



or 



Cedar Street, 



SOUTH. 

c 2 



3d J>OPtJLATrOK. 

When William Penn first came to this country^ 
he found it possessed by about three thousand Euro- 
peans, Swedes, Dutch, and English, who were scat- 
tered from New- Castle to the falls of Delaware. Two 
thousand of his countrymen accompanied him from 
England, and in two years after, v/hen he embarked 
to return, he left eighty houses and cottages in the 
capital. Population flowed in rapidly from a variety 
of causes. The religious bigotry of the English gov- 
ernment had rendered a large body of industrious 
people much dissatisfied ; the character of Penn 
stood high with his sect, and he was known to be a 
favourite at court. The patent for the tract of land, had 
been drawn by an able statesman, under an express in- 
junction that it should "give sufficient encouragement 
to settlers :'' it was particularly dictated, so as to 
avoid those disputes that had occurred in the case 
of the colony of Massachusetts, and afforded security 
from the interference by an arbitrary court which was 
of no small importance. But the liberal principles 
adopted by Penn in the " conditions with the settlers," 
contributed perhaps more than any other cause to the 
increase of population. Property was secured to the 
labouring class, by the allotment of " fifty acres to 
a servant at the end of his time." To men deprived of 
all fiopes of power or office by the existence of privi- 
leged orders, it was a strong inducement to emigrate, 
that " all inhabitants paying scot and lot to the go- 
vernment shall be eligible as a representative of the 
people ;" a provision embracing a greater number 
by the addition of another aiticle, that '*no person 
shall enjoy more than one public office at a time," 
Confidence was given to those disposed to supply 
the wants of the colonists, by compelling " factors, 
wronging their employers, to make satisfaction, and 
one third over ;" and religious controversy could 
Ttbt disturb their repose, when none, ** acknowledging 



POPULATIONS^ 



one Almiglity God, and living peaceably in society, 
could be molested for their religion, nor compelled to 
frequent or maintain any religious ministry what- 



ever." 



In the short space of three years after the settle- 
ment of Penn, fiity sail of vessels arrived, filled with 
passengers from different countries. The tyranny of 
the German Princes contributed greatly to this num- 
ber. So many oi their subjects arrived at an early date, 
that government was alarmed at their increase ; but 
their habits were industrious and retired, and dis- 
persing in various directions, they diffused im- 
provements, and silently, but steadily contributed 
in an eminent degree to the prosperity of the coun- 
try. 

Dwelling houses. Inhabitants. 

In 1683^ there were 80 



iroo 


700 




17491 


2,076 




1753 


2,300 


14,563 


1760 


2,960 


18,756 


1769 


4,474 


28,042 


1776 


5,460 




1783 


6,000 




1790 


6,651 






415 Stores and 


Workshops. 


1801 


11,200 




1805:|: 


13,461 





* Penn's letter. Proud 1. p. 263. t Robinson's Directory. 
f The enumeration of 1749, was made by citizens of the first 
i^espectabiHty. 

Mulberry ward, by Dr. Franklin — -Dock ward, Joseph Ship- 
n^—Lower Delaware, William Allen, (Chief Justice. )~Upper 



45en- 



32 



POI»ULATION. 



The following' enumeration from the Directory^ was 
taken by James Robinson and John A, Paxton in 
November^ 1810. By xvhich it appears the city con- 
tains thirteen thousand two hundred and forty one 
Buildings^ of which seven hundred and thirty severi 
are new. 



Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 



Totals. 8640 4601 13241 

Northern Liberties^ built part (exclusive of Kensing- 
ton) contains four thousand two hundred and eigh- 
ty^ of which two hundred and seventy-txvo are 

New, 



Brick 


Frame 


Total 


6351 


2523 


8874 


1053 


159 


1212 


161 


69 


230 


131 


25 


156 


944 


1825 


2769 



Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 



Brick 
1556 
93 
42 
10 
64 



Frame 

1442 

76 

49 

9 

939 



Total 

2998 

169 

91 

19 

1003 



Totals. 1765 2515 4280 



Delaware, Thomas Hopkinsoii. — South ward and Southern sub- 
urbs, Edward Shippen. — High street, Thomas Lawrence, jun. — 
Walnut, WiUiam Humphreys. — Chesnut, Joseph Turner.— North 
ward and Northern suburbs. Dr. "William Shippen. — Middle ward, 
William Coleman. 

The alteration of the division of the wards in 1800, renders it 
impossible to judge of the comparative increase of population in 
the several quarters of the city. 



POPULATION. 



Penn Townships built par ts^ coritalns nme hundred and 
thirty-six Buildings^ of which Jifty seven are New, 





Brick 


Frame 


Total 


Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 


225 


292 
2 


S\7 
2 


Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 


- 4 
2 

- re 


8 
3 

324 


12 
5 

400 



Totals. 30r 629 936 

Kensington contains eight hundred and sixty nine 
Buildings^ of which Jifty -two are New, 



Brick Frame Total 
Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 

Totals. 205 664 869 

Southwark^ hmlt parts^ co7itains two thousand seve?i 
hu7idred and thirty -nine buildiiigs^ of which one 
hundred and twenty-eight are New, 



184 


431 


615 


1 


8 


9 


5 


5 


10 


1 


3 


4 


14 


217 


231 





Brick 


Frame 


Total 


Dwelling Houses 


834 


1466 


2301 


Store Houses 


S6 


32 


68 


Manufacturing Buildings 


10 


19 


29 


Public Buildings 


8 


5 


13 


Stables, Workshops, Sec. 


14 


314 


328 



Totalsv 902 1837 2739 



U POPULATION. 

MoyameJising and Passyunk^ north of Federal road^ 
contains seven hundred and four buildings^ of -which 
forty-nine are New, 





Brick 


Frame 


Total 


Dwelling Houses 


82 


427 


509 


Store Houses 


1 


1 


2 


Manufacturing Buildings 


5 


7 


12 


Public Buildings 


5 


3 


8 


Stables, Workshops, Sec. 


16 


157 


173 



Totals. 109 595 704 
In all 15j814 dwelling Houses. 



POPULATION. 



5o 



The following table will serve to shew the progres- 
sive population of the city and liberties, more particu- 
larly, since the establishment of the federal govern- 
ment. 





FREE 
WHIl'ES 


SLAVES 


FREE PER- 
SONS NOT 
TAXED 


TOTAL 


1790. 










City 


26,918 


193 


1,411 


28,522 


Northern Liberties 


8,129 


34 


174 


8,337 


Southwark 


5,421 


29 


211 


5,661 


Passyunk 


833 




52 


884 


Moyamensing 


1,394 




298 


1,592 


1800. 










City 


36,955 


55 


4,210 


41,220 


Northern Liberties 


16,010 




960 


16,970 


Southwark 


8,773 




848 


9,621 


Passyunk 


831 




53 


884 


Moyamensing 


1,294 




298 


1,592 


1810. 










City 


47,368 


2^ 


6,352t 


53,722 


Northern Liberties 


20,348 




1,210 


21,558 


Southwark 


12,327 




1,380 


13,707 


Passyunk 


968 




24 


992 


Moyamensing 


2,178 




709 


2,887 


Penn^: 


3,640 




158 


3,798 



* See account of the abolition Society, 
f Robinson's Directory for 1811, states the number of blacks 
at 9,607. 

\ Formerly Dart of Northern Liberties, 



36 POPULATIO^^ 

In 1790 the total inhabitants of the 14 city wards 
by the general census, was 28,522 

Slaves , . 193 

Free persons not taxed 1,411 

1,604 

26,918 



In 1800, . • . 41,220 

Slaves . . 55 

Free persons not taxed 4,210 



4,265 

, 36,955 



Increase 10,037 

In 1810, . J. . 53,722 

Slaves .... 2 
Free persons not taxed 6,352 

6354 

~ 47,368 



Increase 10,413 

In 1 800 the number of inhabitants in the built parts 
of the Northern Liberties was 10,718 
Free persons not taxed 714 



10,004 



In 1810, 19,874 

Free persons not taxed 1,137 

— — 18,737 

Increase 8,733 

In 1800 the number of inhabitants in the built parts 
of Southwark, was 6414 

Free persons not taxed 565 

^,849 



POPULATION. 



37 



In 1810, in Southwark and Moyamensing, built 
parts 14,796 

Free persons not taxed 2,038 

12,758 



Increase 6,909 

The above returns have been taken from the origi- 
nal documents in the marshal's office, and the accu- 
racy of the results may be depended on. In forming 
anestimate of the city population, only the thickly built 
parts of Southwark, Passyunk, and Moyamensing, 
adjoining the southern quarter of the city, have been 
taken into the account ; the same rule has been ob- 
served with respect to the Northern Liberties. Had 
the scattered population been taken into considera- 
tion, the sum total of the whites would have been in-, 
creased in 1810, to about 2,000 souls more. Thq^, 
whole population of the city and county of Philadei -> 
phiain 1810, was 111,210.^ 

Every one knows that Philadelphia has suffered 
severely by the American pestilence, commonly cal- 
led yellow fever, and as it may be satisfactory to know 
the number of deaths in different years, and they will 
serve to shew how much greater would have been our 
increase, had we had no pestilence, the following 
statement is given. 



DEATHS. 

In the year 1793. 
August, . 361 
September . . 1,514 
October . 2,045 
November . 82 


pEATHS. 

In the year 1797. 
August . 303 
September . , 579 
October . 386 
November . 24 


4,002 


1,292 



* The population of the city of New York, embracing the 
^'hole island, is 965872. 

D 



POPULATION. 



DEATHS. 

In the year 1798. 



August 
September 
October 
November 



626 
2,004 



64 



3,637 



DEATHS. 

In the year 1799. 
August . 375 

September . 465 
October • 175 

1,015 



DEATHS 

In the year 1802. 

August . . . 262 

September . . . 284 

October . . . 289 

835 



iThus m five years we lost ten thousand seven 
hundred and eighty-one persons. The same disease 
prevailed in one thousand seven hundred and ninety 
four, five and six, with more violence than in 1802, 
but no particular account was kept of the deaths by it. 

Several reasons may be assigned why the popula- 
tion of the city has increased so rapidly, notwith- 
standing numerous attacks of a sweeping pestilence, 
since the Census of 1790. 

1st. From the ease with which a competence is 
obtained, the number of marriages is very great. 
Futurity never enters into the calculation of a cou- 
ple desirous of uniting ; they know that whatever be 
the calling of the man, he can easily make more than 
will support his family, if he be industrious, and 
blest with health. 

2d. The great encouragement given to every class 
of mechanics, induces more of them to settle here than 
in other cities. 



POPULATION. S-9 

3d. A general amelioration of the public health. — 
This happy eitect is to be ascribed to the following 
causes : 

1st. The arching of the creek, running from near 
Spruce in the site of Dock street. The intention 
of leaving this creek by the original proprietor, Wil- 
liam Perm, has been already mentioned, and with 
this view, its banks were supported by stone walls ; 
but its bed filled so rapidly with mud, that it became 
useless as a canal for boats, and for many years re- 
mained a great nuisance. It was the receptacle of 
an immense mass of animal and vegetable offall mat- 
ters, which poisoned the air by the exhalations arising 
from them, and the muddy bed, by the action of the 
sun on them when the tide was out. A conviction of 
its injurious effects, induced Doctor Rush to point it 
out as a proper object of legislative attention, and re- 
commended the arching of it as a measure essen- 
tially connected with the health of the city. The 
people of the present day, who now enjoy the great 
advantage of an airy street, and see the large stores 
built in place of the receptacles of poverty, vice, 
and filth, will learn with astonishment, that a violent 
opposition was made to the measure by many citi- 
zens, and that the benevolent and patriotic guardian of 
the public health, " stood alone" among his breth- 
ren in the recommendation of the measure. After 
a full discussion of the question by the legislature, a 
law was passed in 1784 for arching the creek. It is a 
fact, that typhus fevers generally, j and the destruc- 
tive cholera, or bowel complaint which destroyed so 
great a proportion of the children under the age of 
18 months, who vitre within the influence of the 
pestilential air of this dock, have diminished so evi- 
dently as to strike even common observers. 



,40 CLI3IATE. 

2d. The cultivation of the lots adjoining the city, 
many of which were low and retained water, and 
thus gave rise to poisonous exhalations. 

3d. Greater attention to cleanliness in the streets. 

4th. Increase of horticulture. By inducing greater 
consumption of vegetables, and consequently a dimi- 
nution in the use of animal food, the tendency to fe- 
brile complaints is lessened. 

5th. The institution of a Dispensary, which has 
extended medical relief to thousands, who might have 
suffered from inability to pay a regular physician, or 
have fallen under the hands of pretenders to medi- 
cine. 

6th. Improvements in the healing art=^. 

7th. The increase of knowledge among all classes 
of people, whence they are better acquainted with 
the means of preserving health. 

Climate* 

A considerable change has taken place in the cli- 
mate of Philadelphia, in common with the state at 
large, during the last forty years. Our winters are 
less uniformly cold, and more variable, and our 
summers less uniformly warm than before the date 
just mentioned. The Delaware for many years past 
has not afforded the diversion of skating for more 
than two weeks at a time, and seldom so long, while 
formerly during four or six weeks, it was the scene 
of pastime and manly exercises. In the year 1704 
snow fell one yard deep, in the winter 1739-40 the 
river was frozen until the 15th of March : but in that 
year the cold was intense all over Europe. 

In the winter of 1779-80 the Delaware continued 
frozen for three months, an ox v/as roasted on the 

* See articles " Disease, Mortality.'* 



CLIMATE. 4t 

ice, and the British army passed over from New 
York to Paulus Hook on the ice. The ground was 
frozen for four and five feet in depth, and plants and 
animals suffered greatly. In 1790, after opening and 
shutting several times, the river closed on the 18th of 
December, and remained so until the eighteenth of 
January 1791, After this period, it closed and open- 
ed often, but was not completely navigable until the 
end of the month. The preceding season had been 
uncommonly mild, and it was even reported that 
boys had bathed in the river on the second of Jan- 
uary, 1790. A heavy fall of snow after the middle 
of December, generally preceded the formation of ice, 
and subsequent freezing of the river. But sometimes 
the river is completely frozen over in a single night, 
and passable the next day. Such an occurrence took 
place on 31st December 1764, 7th of January 1791, 
and 6th of December 1797; and in other yearso 
But although not uniformly cold in modern times 
as formerly, yet intensely cold weather occasionally 
is experienced. Thus in 1788 on the sixth of Febru- 
ary the thermometer of Farenheit stood at 3o below 0« 
In February 1791, it stood at 5": of late years the cold- 
est weather has not commenced until the months of 
January orFebruary, previously to which the seasons 
have been moderate ; in some instances unusually so. 

The winter of 1801-2 was milder than any season 
since 1 790, scarcely any snow having fallen before the 
22d. of February : and no obstruction to the naviga- 
tion took place except for a few hours by floating ice 
on the day just mentioned. Shad were in market on 
the 17th of February 1802; on the 23d of the same 
month Farenheit's thermometer at 8 A. M. stood 
at 10" ; at 3 P. M. 17", the navigation however was 
not impeded. 

Thus also the Autumn of 1805 was so mild, that 
farmers ploughed their land until near Christmas, 

D 2 



42 CLIMATE. 

-and yet in the following January the weather was 
very cold. In the succeeding season no cold weath= 
er occurred until February, when it was uncommon- 
ly severe all over this continent. In January 1810, 
after a moderate season, the weather became very cold, 
and on the 19th the mercury at 8 A. M, stood at 
11°, and for several days after, was at 8 10 13 14 11*^. 
During the past season, the weather, though rainy and 
variable, was not very cold except on 17th Decem- 
ber, until February, when it for several days was 
severe in the extreme. And yet shad were in^ mar- 
ket on the 1 7th of March, and herrings three days 
before. 

In former times, although the winters were certain- 
ly uniformly colder than of late years, yet mild sea- 
sons occasionally occurred. Dr. Collin has stated 
on the authority of the Swedish records, that in Feb- 
ruary 1714, flowers were seen in the woods: and 
William Penn says that in " 1681 the winter was 
mild, scarcely any ice at all," yet the next season was 
severely cold. 

Our summers no longer oppress us with long con- 
tinued heats. We have it is true occasionally a few very 
warm days, but cool or moderate weather soon succeed 
*' attended by showers of rain accompanied sometimes 
by thunder and lightning, and afterwards by a north- 
west wind, which produces a coolness in the air that 
is highly invigorating and agreeable."* The thermo- 
meter sometimes rises to 89, 90, 91, 92, 93 degrees of 
Farenheit in the months of July and August, and it is 
then common to hear the natives of South Carolina, 
Georgia, and of the West Indies, who may happen 
to be exposed to it, complain of the heat, and even 
assert that it is greater than in their own climate. 
This opinion may arise from two causes, 1. Ourapti- 



Rush's works, vol. 1. p. 89, first editioni 



CLIMATE, 43 

tude to forget the sensations of temperature of 
past times, and 2d. to a prejudice in favour of our 
own country, which prevails equally with the savage 
and civilized man. The thermometer may doubtless 
often rise as high in Philadelphia, as in the States 
south of the Potomac, or in the West Indies ; but 
those who complain, forget to give credit in the ac- 
count, for the cool nights and mornings, which they 
enjoy in our capital, while in the former places, the 
most oppressive part of the day is from the time the 
sun and the sea breeze have declined, until some 
hours after sun rise the next morning. In Philadel- 
phia therefore the system although heated in the day, 
is refreshed by the diminution of temperature after 
sun set : while on the other hand, the sufferer rises 
more exhausted than when he retired, and pants for 
the moment, when the blowing of the sea breeze, shall 
restore his wonted activity and spirits. 

A change has taken place in the weather of au- 
tumn ; formerly October and November were the 
most pleasant months in the year, being dry and 
clear ; but of late years, they have been cold, rainy 
and variable : during the past season, this was par- 
ticularly the case. Our springs are often so cold, that 
fires are comfortable, until the 10th of June. 

The quantity of rain that falls in Philadelphia, in 
the course of a year is very irregular. The precise 
quantity cannot be ascertained with accuracy, ow- 
ing to the want of regular observations. What facts 
are in possession shall be given. 

Inches. 
In 1799* there fell, - - 42 3-4 

In 1800* . - . - 39 

In 1801* - - - - 40 6-8 

In 1805 . - - - 42 



* Dr. Cox's medical museum. All the rain that fell in the 
above years was not noted. 



44 CLIMATE. 

In most parts of the United States, the rain falls 
in greater torrents than in Europe. We know but 
little of those '^ fine gentle showers" usually are called 
'' English rains," which when they do occur, Vol- 
ney says " it is the fashion for ^people to go out to. 
enjoy, without umbrellas, and to get themselves wet 
to the skin !!" 

The number of rainy days is certainly diminish- 
ing in the United States, and hence long droughts 
often occur, although the quantity of rain in the 
course of a year, may not vary much from years in 
which the supply of rain has been more regular. 
The summers of 1804 and 1809, were uncommonly 
rainy. In July 1804 6| inches fell ; in August, 4^ ; 
no estimate of June is preserved, but it is well recol- 
lected to have been uncommonly wet, and that vast 
quantities of hay were destroyed in consequence. In 
May 1786, rain fell during fourteen successive 
days. In 1788 and 1809, much grain grew in the 
shock, from the continual rain that fell after it had 
been cut. More rain fell during the month of No- 
vember last (1810) than commonly falls through- 
out the year. In 1791 during the first five months, 
there were 43 days of rain. In the first eight months 
of 1 790, there were 65 days of rain and 1 14 days of 
fair weather. 

Very dry summers sometimes occur, as in 1782, 
and 1793. The variations in the temperature of the 
weather are often considerable. In winter, these are 
not so sensibly felt, but in the summer when they 
occur, as they sometimes do, about the middle of 
August, after a very warm day, and the thermome- 
ter falls 15, 20, 30 degrees in the course of a night, 
indisposition will necessarily attack numbers, especi- 
ally those who incautiously sleep with window 
sashes raised. The temperature of the well water is 
about 52^ of Farenheit. 



DISEASES AND MORTALITY. 45 

The want of an annual report of all the deaths in 
the city until within the last five years, precludes the 
possibility of ascertaining accurately the comparative 
mortality of the present and every former year. It 
may however be asserted that owing to the very 
great improvement in the science of medicine and 
surgery, vv^hich have taken place within a few years, 
the chance for life is much increased ; many diseases, 
now yielding to the powers of the healing art that 
formerly defied it. " m the year ITn,^ the city and 
liberties of Philadelphia, contained between 25,000, 
30,000 inhabitants. Between theChristmas of that 
and the following year, there died one thousand 
twohundred and ninety-onej persons. The city and 
districts contain at present about 100,000 inhabi- 
tants:}: and yet between the first of January 1809, and 
the first of January 1810, there died but 2004 per- 
sons. Had the deaths kept pace with the increase of 
our population, their amount would have been more 
than double that number."^ Thirty years since, the 
disease from drinking cold water in Summer, when 
the body was heated by exercise ; the lock jaw, the 
croup or hives, mania, and numerous other com- 
plaints, that might be mentioned, were seldom or 
never cured ; but at present, they are very rarely 
fatal when early assistance is given. The first named 
disease is peculiar to the United States, and with 
regard to the two last it is asserted on good author- 



* Occasionaly, pains were taken to ascertain from the records of 
the difterent religious societies, and of the public burial g-rounds, 
the number of deaths in the city. The Episcopal church with 
commendable attention have from a very early period, published 
a register ef births, deaths and christenings in their society, but 
no regular list was published of all the city deaths. 

t It is more than probable that this number was even greatero 
i They now contain 100,764. 
§ Hush's charge to medical graduates, 1810, 



.46 DISEASES AND MORTALITY. 

ity, that the success in Philadelphia, is infinitely 
.greater than in Europe. Even the consumption, for- 
merly a hopeless disease, has jdelded in numerous 
cases in this city, to the early and judicious appli- 
cation of medicine. The free use of wine in low fe- 
vers, of mercury, bark, opium and the lancet, all of 
which were used with a timid hand, and also v/arm 
and cold baths, have contributed to increase the em- 
pire of medicine over various diseases. 

The character of our diseases is for the most part 
inflammatory. This circumstance is owing to the very 
variable nature of our climate, to the general use of 
animal food consumed by all classes of people, and 
the free use of stimulating liquors of all kinds : for 
although drunkenness, it may be truly said, is a vice 
by no means common, yet the cheapness of spirituous 
and malt liquors, enables all classes to take freel)^ of 
them, and hence they occasion complaints to assume 
a form, and certainly a degree of violence from which 
they might otherwise be free. We know nothing of 
those desolating low fevers, which so often pre- 
vail in the cities of Europe, among the labouring 
poor in confined courts and alleys, and but little of that 
long list of nervous diseases, (strictly so called) 
which abridge the lives of the higher class of society. 
Hence the lancet is oftener required than the stimu- 
lating draught ; and hence too the reason why the 
European physician, whose circle of observation may 
have been confined chiefly to diseases of an opposite 
character, hears with astonishment of the depleting 
system of the United States, and especially of Phi* 
ladelphia. 

From a variety of causes, a considerable change 
has taken place in the forms of our diseases within 
the last thirty years. 

1. The proportional diminution in the use of ani- 
mal food, the general abolition of hot family suppers 
by our citizens, and of tavern clubs, and the increas- 



BILLS OF MORTALITY. 47 

ed use of vegetable aliment, have contributed to les- 
sen©^ the number of apoplexies, palsies, dropsies 
and other complaints depending upon repletion, and 
exposure to night air. 

2. The substitution of malt liquors for punch which 
was formerly the fashionable beverage at noon, at 
dinner, and at supper ; and the use of flannels, or 
muslin next the body, have expelled the dry gripes, 
formerly a fatal disease in Philadelphia. 

3. The universal use of umbrellas and the increased 
use of high crowned hats, have lessened the diseases 
arising from the operation of the sun. 

4. Vaccination is rapidly dispelling the loathsome 
small pox from the city, 

5. The diminution of deaths from consumption has 
already been mentioned. 

6. The increased cleanliness of the city. 

Bills of Mortality, 

Since the year 1806, the number of deaths, and 
the names of the diseases are ascertained with an accu- 
racy highly desirable in every town, and especially 
in a populous city. 

By a law passed in the above year, the sextons of all 
churches or places of worship, are obliged, under a 
penalty, to obtain from the attending physician of 
a deceased person, or from some of the family, a cer- 
tificate of the age and disorder of which he or she 
may have died, and the days of their death : and in 
like m.anner, a certificate is to be obtained from the 
city alms house, of the diseases of all who die therein, 
w^hich certificates are to be delivered to the Board of 
Health, and by their order a weekly statement is 
made up and published in the newspapers, of the dis- 
eases and the ages of the deceased. At the end of th e 
year, a general statement is published by the Board, 
From these the following result is composed* 



48 BILL OF MORTALITY. 








1807 


1808 


1809 


1810 


Under 2 years, . » . 


614 


867 


758 


760 


From 2 to 5 ... 


121 


167 


92 


115 


5 10 ... 


65 


98 


52 


59 


10 20 




79 


95 


74 


1Z 


20 30 




144 


212 


203 


240 


30 40 




236 


219 


226 


264 


40 50 




172 


186 


159 


163 


50 60 




139 


128 


95 


142 


60 70 




88 


98 


71 


96 


70 80 




79 


61 


67 


68 


80 90 




60 


30 


44 


45 


90 100 




11 


7 


14 


9 


100 110 




4 


2 


1 


2 


Unknown, . . 




233 


101 


141 




Total, .... 


» • 


2045 


2271 


2004 


2036 



Proportion of Deaths in 


each m 


onth. 




January ..... 
February ..... 
March 


150 
118 
154 


136 
123 
154 


130 
118 
141 


149 
152 

127 


April 

May ...... 


157 
133 


169 
179 


136 
150 


152 
164 


June ...... 


159 


227 


184 


147 


July ....... 

August 


237 
268 


374 
297 


184 
280 


192 
269 


September ..... 
October 


237 
162 


185 

154 


167 
176 


173 
193 


November .... 


155 


152 


189 


152 


December 


115 


111 


139 


166 



The above facts speak for themselves, and fully 
disprove the commonly received opinion of 1;he sick^ 
iiess of Philadelphia. 



BEATHS, 



49 



It cannot be said that the year?" 1807-8-9 or 10 
were unusually healthy, because it appears from the 
following table, that ior a period of twelve years, the 
number oi deaths in the city, except during the vis- 
itation of the iever was even smaller. The high 
numbers indicate the years of pestilence. 

DEATHS IN THE CITY AND SUBURBS. 





Males. 


1 ' 

Females.' Total. 


September 1 


,1787 to 


Sept. 


1, 1788 


5bO 


438 


998 


5? 


1788 to 


55 


1789 


514 


482 


996 


I") 


1789 to 


55 


1790 


549 


486 


1035 


August 1, 


1790 to Aug. 


1, 1791 


645 


664 


1309 


?? 


1791 to 




1792 


644 


601 


1245 


?> 


1792 to 




1793 


778 


719 


1497 


5) 


1793 to 




1794 


2933 


2059 


4292 


")"> 


1794 to 




1795 


897 


862 


1759 


55 


1795 to 




1795 


1188 


1025 


2283 


55 


1796 to 




1797 


857 


809 


1666 


55 


1797 to 




1798 


1245 


till 


2356 


55 


1798 to 




1799 


2515 


1948 


4463* 



The above table also proves fully, that the num- 
ber of deaths in proportion to the population of the 
city is less than in other cities oi countries that boast 
of their healthiness, and that the climate, contrary 
to the opinion of European travellers is highly 
conducive to longevity. Had there been any regular 
account taken of the ages of those who died beiore 
1806, the list of old persons might have been greatly 
swelled ; and the want of such a regulation, wiH pre- 



* The preceding- statement was extracted from the table pub- 
lished in " Poulson's Almanac ;" the information for which wa? 
annually collected 'oy the editor of that publication. 

E 



50 COMPARATIVE HEALTH OF PHILADELPHIA. 

vent our city from appearing in as favourable a light 
as it deserves: but enough has been said to shew the 
incorrectness of the assertion so often made, with 
respect to its general unhealthiness.^ 

A few remarks may be offered upon the foregoing- 
statement. The population of Philadelphia, including 
the built parts of the Northern Liberties, Southwark, 
Passyunk and Moyamensing, amount to 100,764 
souls, but to avoid fractions, say 100,000. 

The number of deaths in 1810, was 2036, giving 
the proportion of one to fifty, while from the tables 
of Dr. Halley, formed upon facts derived from vari- 
ous cities in Europe which were least liable to fluctua- 
tions, as to sudden increase or decrease, it appears 
that the proportion of deaths in them is as 1 to 33. 
The Liverpool bill of mortality for 1806, states the 
number oi deaths at 2395, and computing a population 
of 80,000,, the above proportions are preserved, and 
are said to be less than obtains in any other town of 
equal size in the kingdom.f Now if Liverpool, being 
the most healthy town in a country which boasts of 
its healthiness, is exceeded by Philadelphia in that 
point, in the proportion of more than 50 to 33^ the 
iact certainly ought to satisfy us with our ov/n climate, 
and to silence the aspersions of Europeans with re- 
gard to it. 

Compared with other cities in the United States, 
the healthiness of Philadelphia will be found flatter- 
ing. 



*The just claim to healthiness by Philadelphia, will more ful- 
ly appear from a paper preparing by the author on the subject of 
American longevity. 

-[Monthly Magazine, London^ July, 1807, 



COMPARATIVE HEALTH OP PHILADELPHIA. 51 

The number of deaths from 

December, 1806, to August, Adults Children Total. 

180r, in New- York amounted to 862 688 1550 

In Philadelphia, in same thne 796 591 1387 

Greater number of deaths! ^^ ^^ .^„ 

. V 66 97 163 

m New York, J 

Deaths in New York by consumption, 

during the above time, _ - - - 304 

Deaths in Philadelphia by the same 

disease, and in the same time , - - 207 

iMore deaths in New York, by con- 
sumption, - - - - - - 97 

1550 deaths in New York, in S5 weeks 

average per day, ----- 6|- 

1387 deaths in Philadelphia, in the 

same time, average per day, - - - 5y 

If the population of Philadelphia, as being great- 
er than that of New York, be taken into consideration, 
the difference in favour of Philadelphia will be con- 
siderably increased. 

No document having come to hand of the deaths 
in Boston or Baltimore, a comparison could not be 
made with respect to those cities. 

The cause of the greater number of deaths by 
consumption in New York, and in the New Eng- 
land States generally, admits of an easy explanation 
upon the following principles. 

1. Hereditary confirmation. 2d, Greater keenness 
in the air from the vicinity to the sea ; hence weak 
lungs are irritated in such air, while a dry air, free 
from saline impregnation, will have no effect. Some 
persons have spit blood in New York, who w^ere en- 
tirely free from any pulmonic affection in Philadel- 
phia, 3d, Prejudices against bleeding, by which the 



52 eOMMERCE. 

inHammation almost so universally attendant upon the 
disease in the beginning, is permitted to go on, until 
it becomes general, and tubercles are formed in the 
lungs. This cause prevails chiefly in New York. 
4th, Inattention to accommodating the dress to the 
change o.C the weather, prevails equally in New York 
and Philadelphia, but the remote causes not existing to 
such a degree in the latter as in the former place, this 
cause does not operate so powerfully in Philadelphia. 

Commerce, 



Arrivals — The number of square rigged vessels 
that entered the port in 1771, was 361 
Sloops and Schooners, 



391 



In 1786, the total number was 
1787, 



i-788, 
1789, 
1793, 
1797, 
1804, 



.R 



59 

55 

55 



RIVALS- 



-Foreign 579 
Coasters 1220 



Clearances— Foreign 618 
Coasters 1146 



1805, Arrivals- 



Clearances- 



-Foreign 547 
Coasters 1169 



-Foreign 617 
Coasters 1231 



1799 



1764 



1716 



1848 



752 

910 

870 

854 

1261 

1050 

1420 



3563 



5564 



COMMERCE, , 53 

1806, Arrivals— Foreign 690 

Coasters 1231 

1921 

Clearances- — Foreign 730 

Coasters 1278 

2309 

4230 

1807, Arrivals — Foreign 699 

Coasters 1270 

1969 

Clearances — ^Foreign 712 

Coasters 1231 

1943 

3912 

1809, Arrivals — Foreign 278 

Coasters 1413 

— — 169t 

Clearances — (Embargo) 

1810, Arrivals — Foreign 514 

Coasters 684 

1198 

Clearances — Foreign 497 

Coasters 614 

1111 

2309 

Exports* 

In the year 1790, the total amount of the exports of 
Philadelphia, was - - - ^7,953,41 S 

In 1796, it was - - . - 17,523,866 

1 809, the amount of domestic produce 
exported was - ^4,238, 358 
Foreign, - - 4,810,883 

9,049,241 

1810,. Domestic, - - 4,751,634 

Foreign, - - 6,241,764 

. 10,993^398 

® % 



54 commerce; 

Tonnage, 

In 1771, the total amount of Tonnage 

was - _ - - - - 44,654 

In 1786— American, 31,546 

Foreign 28,392 



59,938 

In 1800, Total » „ - - 103,663 

1810 - - - - - 121,443 

It was stated to Congress in February last, by a 
master ship-builder, of Philadelphia, that there were 
then 9,145 tons of shippmg on the stocks. 

The commerce of Philadelphia has kept pace with 
the progress of the general prosperity of the State ; 
but in common with the whole union, has suffered 
a considerable diminution, by reason of the vexa- 
tions from European nations, who for some years 
past, have acted as if power gave right, arid by the 
restrictive measures forced upon our government. Our 
merchants are equal to any in the Union, for indus- 
try and enterprize ; but during the uncertainty of 
trade that has prevailed for some time past, they 
have observed a prudent caution in their adventures, 
which has had the effect of lowering the amount of 
tonnage, when compared with other cities in the 
United States : but the good effects of such con- 
duct has been most striking during the past year, 
when owing to the uncertainty of the renewal oi the 
charter of the United States Bank, that great wheel 
of commercial credit, a very great diminution of 
bank accommodation necessarily took place : hence, 
while in other cities of the Union, the greatest dis- 
tress has been produced, and failures have been nu- 
merous, and to an immense amount, so few have ta- 
ken place in Philadelphia, as to produce no diminu- 
tion of that chain of mutual confidence, by which 



COMMERCE. 



55 



commerce is upheld, and cannot fail to confirm the 
opinion generally entertained oi the stability of the 
mercantile commmiity of Philadelphia. 

Prices Current^ of Foreign and Domestic Articles^ at 

various dates. 



Thursday, April r, 1720. 


1798 


1811 




April. 


April. 


Flour, 8s 6d to 9s per cwt. 


32 to 34s 


S6 50 


White bread, 18s do. 


75s 


9 


Middling bread, 14s per do. 


45s 


7 ■. 


Brown bread, lis do. 


30s 


5 50 


Salt, 3s 2d per bushel 


7s 6d 


55 


Tobacco, 14s per cwt. 


75s 


4 to 10 


Muscovado Sugar, 30s to 




. 


45s 6d per cwt. 


120s 


12 50 


Pork, 45s per barrel 


120 to 142 6 


17 to 22 


Beei\, 30s per do. 


90 to 112s 6 


9 to 16 


Rum, 3s to 3s 6d per gallon 


8s 9tolOs 7d 


1 


MolassCs, 1 7 to 1 8d per gal. 


4s 6d 


45 


Wheat,3s to 3s 3d per bush. 


9s 


2 25 


Indian corn. Is 8d to Is lOd 






per do. 


3s 9d 


75 


Bohea Tea, 50s. per lb. 


4s Id 


30 to 35 cts. 


Madeira Wine, 16 to 20l 




60lstg.p.pi. 


per pipe 


40l per pipe 


first cost 


Pipe staves, 3l per thousand 


$55 


$77 


Hogshead staves, 45s do. 


^5 


44 


Barrel staves, 22s 6d do.. 


18 


32 


Pitch, 16 to 17s per barrel 


26s 3d 


6 



No article in the above list exhibits so great a dif- 
ference in price, as Bohea Tea. At the date first men- 
tioned, its use was confined to a few persons, the 
greater part of whom had been educated in Europe, 
and could not abandon the pleasant meal which the 



^6 INSPECTION OF BEEF AND PORK. 

article aiForded them. It was deemed by many a sin- 
ful luxury, and of course, proscribed by the bigoted. 
All of it came by way of England, and was saddled 
with heavy duties. Bohea Tea was moreover, the 
only kind of tea then used. 

Inspection of Beef and PorA. ^ 

The importance of securing a character in foreign 
markets to our staple commodities, and of preventing 
impositions by the dishonest, upon our own citizens, 
early attracted the attention of the legislature, under 
the colonial government. 

In the year 1727, a law was enacted to regulate 
the exportation of beef and pork, and an inspector 
appointed wkh extensive authority, to search ships 
and stores for either article, intended to be exported j 
heavy penalties were also inflicted for opposition, or 
molestation of any sort to him, while in the execu- 
tion of his duty ; or for shipping any cask without the 
provincial brand or mark. In case of dispute, arbi- 
trators v/ere to be appointed by a magistrate, who 
was to give judgment agreeably to their report. 

By a law passed in 1789, all beef or pork, the pro- 
duce of the State, and intended to be exported, are 
to be packed in barrels made of sound and seasoned 
white oak, with fourteen hoops thereon, fastened at 
each end by iron nails, and at each bilge, by wooden 
pegs or pins. 

Every beef or pork tierce, must be of the guage of 
42 gallons, wine measure, and contain 3001b. sound 
meat, well packed and secured with salt and pickle, 
and not have more than three legs or shins ; and if 
pork, not more than three heads : every barrel of 
beef to be of the guage oi 28 gallons, wine measure, 
and to contain no more than two shins : every barrel 
of pork, of the guage o; 29 gallons, wine measure, 
and to hold 200 lbs. cured meat, and no. more than 



INSPECTION OF FLOUR. 67 

two heads : every half barrel of beef and pork to be 
of the guage of 15 gallons, and to contain 100 lbs. of 
cured meat ; and ii ot beef, not more than one shin, 
and if of pork, not more than one head. Casks of eve- 
ry sort to be branded with the word " Philadelphia," 
and name of the cooper, or the person putting up the 
same. Every tierce, barrel, or half barrel, containing 
salted beei or pork, intended for sale, of the quantity 
and quality before mentioned, and packed and secured 
in the manner aforesaid, shall be passed by the in- 
spector : but if these regulations be not complied 
with, he is to scratch out the cooper's or packer's 
brand j and if the same cannot be rendered mer- 
chantable, a X is to be branded on the head of the 
barrel. 

Persons selling or delivering beef or pork not in- 
spected, or reiusing to admit the inspector to erase 
the cooper's or packer's brand, forfeits ten shillings j 
for erasing the cross that may have been stamped, 
the penalty is ten pounds. Six pence per barrel is paid 
for inspection, and one shilling and six pence for 
each tierce, and one shilling for each barrel, or half 
barrel repacked, besides cooperage. Persons may 
employ their own cooper. 

Inspection of Flour, 

By a law passed in IT'Sl, flour casks are to be 
made of seasoned materials ; having ten hoops, nailed 
with four nails in each chine hoop, and three nails in 
each upper bilge hoop : the staves to be twenty seven 
inches long, but may be of different diameters at the 
head : viz. casks No. 1, eighteen inches at the head % 
No. 2, sixteen inches and a half : No. 3, fi teen inch- 
es and a half. Twenty cents penalty on every barrel 
is annexed to a breach of this regulation. Millers 
are to have brands to mark every cask therewith, be= 



58 INSPECTION OF FLOUR. 

fore removal from the place where the same was bolt- 
ed or packed : and these brands are to be registered 
with the clerk or the Quarter Sessions of the County. 
No flour is to be exported before being inspected. 
Inspectors have authority to enter onboard anv ves- 
sel, or into any store, to search for flour intended to 
be exported, and are protected from molestation by 
a heavy penalty on the offender. Counterfeiters of the 
brand are to pay five pounds for every cask so brand- 
ed. No inspector is to deal in flour, under a penalty 
of filty pounds, and forfeit of office. 

Flour mixed with Indian corn meal, is to be con- 
demned, and a fine of three dollars for each cask 
incurred : one fourth to the use of the inspector, and 
the other three-iourths to the use of the poor of the 
county in which the owner of the flour may reside. 

Corn, intended to be ground into meal, must be 
first kiln dried, and when ground, the words " kiln 
dried," must be branded on the cask, before it leaves 
the mill. Casks contaming rye flour must also be 
branded with the words " rye flour," and he may add 
" flne," it he thinks its quality will insure approba- 
tion from the inspector. Corn and rye meal may be 
packed in large casks, but secured by sixteen hoops, 
With iour nails in each chine hoop, and three wood- 
en pegs at the upper edge of each bilge hoop : the 
staves to be forty-one inches, and the diameter of 
the head tv/enty-seven inches ; the diameter at the 
bung, thirty-one inches, and to contain eight hundred 
pounds neat weight, and having the tare of the cask 
marked on it. Both rye and corn flour are subject to 
the sam.e inspection, and the same penalties as wheat- 
en flour. Three cents are allowed for each cask of 
corn or rye meal inspected. 

Bread casks are to be weighed, and the tare mark- 
ed thereon ; a false tare subjects the ofl"ender to the 
penalty oi five shillings. Bakers of bread for export- 



INSPECTION OF FLOUE. 59 

atioii, must deliver with the bread, an invoice, with 
his name branded on the cask : if found light, they 
are forfeited. Flour waggons, carts or boats, with 
flour on board, must have sufficient covering : flour 
brought to a landing, must be stored or sheltered 
from the weather. Flour attempted to be shipped 
before inspection, pays five shillings a barrel. In 
case of disputes between owner and inspector, a ma- 
gistrate appoints three impartial persons, one named 
by the owner, one by the inspector, and a third by 
himself, who examine the flour, and report the 
state thereof ; if damaged, the cause of such dam- 
age : if the flour be not deemed merchantable by 
the magistrate, the owner must pay to the inspector 
one shilling per cask; if deemed merchantable, the in- 
spector pays all costs. In case flour has been injured 
by shallop-men, carters, or miller, the ov/ner is enti- 
tled to damages to the extent of the injury. The 
penalty is five pounds for counterfeiting flour brands, 
or impressing the same on flour casks ; one hundred 
pounds for branding flour '*■ superfine,'^ after it has 
been condemned ; and if attempted to be shipped, 
the flour is forfeited: one half goes to the State, the 
other half to the prosecutor. 

The manner of performing the inspection is as fol- 
lows. The officer runs a scoop diagonally from one 
head of a barrel to the other, and is thus enabled to 
examine every part oi its contents, and to determine 
whether it is of uniform quality, as to fineness or 
clearness, or whether it is musty or sour, and he ac- 
cordingly either confirms the stamp of quality alrea- 
dy made by the miller, or erases it by means of a 
scraper: the mark of approbation, besides leaving the 
original brand oi quality undefaced, is a wooden 
plug, stamped S. P. on the head, and inserted in the 
hole made by the scoop. 



60 OF SHAD AND HERRING. 

Such is the confidence placed in the abilities and 
impartiality of the inspectors, that appeals from their 
decisions are seldom made, and in the few instances 
in which disputes have occurred, the decision of the 
officer has been confirmed. Besides one cent per 
barrel paid by the buyer, the inspector receives the 
contents of the scoop as a perquisite. 

In the year 1809, in consequence of the increase 
of the trade, and extension of the city, a law was 
passed, requiring the appointment of two inspectors, 
one to reside north, and the other south of High- 
street, who are to attend alternately for one month 
in each d; strict, to the inspection of flour ; and when 
the emoluments exceed 1500 dollars a year to each 
inspector, one hall of the surplus is to be paid into the 
State treasury. Every barrel of wheat and rye flour 
must contain 196 lbs. 

Shad and Herring* 

Casks for packing shad and herring for exporta- 
tion, may be made of any kind of timber, but must 
be salt and pickle tight, and hooped with fourteen 
good hoops, secured attach bilge with three nails 
or pins, and at each head or chme hoop, with at least 
three nails. The length of the staves to be 27-^ inches. 
The head, 17i- inches. The cask to contain 28 gal- 
lons, wine measure. The half barrel, 14 gallons; and 
both to be branded with the initial letter of the 
christian name, and the sirname at full length, of the 
packer or seller, under a penalty of 67 cents for each 
barrel. On payment of the fine, the inspector may 
brand them with his name, and be entitled to six 
cents from the persons selling the same. Before a 
sale, or exportation, the barrels must be examined 
by the inspector, who is authorized to erase the brand 



mSPECTlON OF BUTTER. 61 

of the packer, in case the barrels are not of the di- 
mensions, and made in the way before mentioned, 
and not packed and secured as here directed. If 
they cannot be rendered merchantable, he may erase 
the brand of the curer, and impress on the head 
a cross, thus, ^ . 

Persons selling shad or herrings, for exportation, 
or transportation, before they have been examined 
and branded ; or refusing permission to the inspec- 
tor to erase a brand, when necessary, shall forfeit 
one dollar and thirty three cents for every barrel. 
The penalty for defacing the marks of condemnation 
of the inspector, is twenty dollars. Twenty cents are 
allowed to the inspector for examining every barrel, 
and thirty-three cents for every barrel or half barrel 
of shad or herring he may repack : for filling up and 
heading the same, ten cents. Unexported fish are to 
be examined every six months, and three cents are 
allowed for every barrel examined and headed. 

Penalties are to be collected by the inspector for 
the time being ; one half to be paid to the guardians 
of the poor, the other half to be retained by the in- 
spector : to be recovered as other debts. Appeals 
from the decision of the inspector are provided for 
as in the case of flour. Deputies may be appointed 
by the inspector, in. Philadelphia county, Bucks, and 
Chester. 

Butter, 

Every keg of butter offered for sale and exporta- 
tion, shall contain fifty pounds of butter, sufficiently 
salted for exportation, and shall be packed in kegs 
of the following dimensions : viz. 

The staves to be of tlie length of sixteen and one 
half inches, the diameter of the head eleven inches, 
and the diameter of the bulge thirteen inches, 2iid 

F 



62 INSPECTION OF FLAX SEED. 

made of sound and well seasoned white-oak timber, 
with seventeen hoops on each keg, and fastened with 
three iron nails in each head hoop: each keg shall be 
weighed and tared, and the tare marked on one of 
the heads with a marking iron in legible characters. 

Every keg containing butter shall be inspected be- 
fore it be laden on board of any vessel for exporta- 
tion, by boreing a hole through the head, and pierc- 
ing the butter through with a proper instrument, in 
order to ascertain the quality ; and if the inspector 
find the butter of first quality, he shall brand the 
keg with the letters S P, first quality ; and if found 
inferior to the first, he shall brand it S P, second 
quality ; and if found not merchantable, then the 
said inspector shall impress and brand a distinct 
mark of a cross, thus, ^ : (each stroke of the said 
cross shall be at least two inches long,) on one head 
of every such keg, containing butter as aforesaid. 

Every person who shall load on board of a vessel, 
any butter not inspected, or offer for sale, or export 
in kegs different from those described, or containing 
less than fifty pounds, shall forfeit one dollar for each 
keg. Four cents are paid as inspection fees, for each 
keg, by the purchaser, and customary allowance 
for cooperage, unless he employ his own cooper. 

Flax Seed. 

No flax seed is permitted to be exported before 
being cleaned, and mvist be packed in casks, made as 
straight as possible ; the staves of which must be of 
sound oak, and having, besides a lining hoop on the 
outside round the chines ; twelve other good hoops, 
secured by three iron nails in each of the chine 
hoops, and three in each quarter hoop. The casks 
are to be oi two sizes : the larger size to be two feet 
nine inches long ; and in diameter, at each head, 
twenty-four inches, and to contain seven bushels of 



samCLES. 63 

&ix seed. The smaller size, to contain three bushels 
and a half: the casks to be branded with die name of 
the person who cleaned the seed. 

Violators of the foregoing regulations, forfeit 
twenty shillings for each cask, not inspected, or not 
made, branded, or filled as directed ; and five shil- 
lings for every cask shipped without being branded. 

ShingleSi> 

Shingles, intended for exportation, must be of the 
following dimensions. Shingles of the first kind, 
must be two feet nine inches, at least, long ; five and 
a half inches wide, and of such athickness, that when 
dressed, they may remain at least half an inch thick 
at every place between the but end, and a distance of 
ten inches from the same. 

Shingles of the second kind must be twenty-four 
inches at least, and not more than twenty-six inches 
in length ; five inches at least, in width, and of such 
a thickness, that when dressed, they may remain at 
least half an inch thick at every part between the but 
end, and a distance of seven inches therefrom. 

Shingles of the third kind, must be fifteen inches 
long, nor less than three and a half inches wide, and of 
a thickness sufficient to remain, when dressed, three 
eights of an inch thick at every place between the 
end, and a distance of six inches from the same. 

By a supplement passed in 1790, shingles of the 
third sort are required to be packed in a close and 
compact manner, when sold in bundles ; each of 
which shall contain one hundred and twenty-five shin- 
gles, and no more ; and each row in every bundle 
must only contain three shingles. 

Lumber* 

Staves, heading, boards, plank, or timber, intended 
for exportation, must be inspected by the proper offi- 



64 LUMBER. 

cer, or his deputies ; who, if he find them sound, 
and fit for exportation, shall count and cuU the same, 
in a just and impartial manner. 

Every hewed or shaved pipe, shall be four feet 
eight inches long ; three inches and a half broad in 
the narrowest part, clear of sap ; five eighths of an 
inch thick in the thinnest place ; nor more than one 
inch thick in any part, regularly split with the grain 
of the wood ; and shall not have more than seven 
worm holes, and be otherwise fit for a good pipe 
stave. 

Every hew^ed or shaved barrel stave shall be two 
feet six inches long, three inches and a half broad, in 
the narrov\^est part ; half an inch thick in the thin- 
nest part, regularly split : not more than five worm 
holes. 

Every hogshead stave, shall be three feet six inch- 
es long; three inches and a halt broad, clear of sap ; 
in the narrowest place, five eighths of an inch thick 
in the thinnest part ; not more than one inch thick in 
any part, regularly split, and not more than six worm 
holes. 

Every piece of hogshead heading, shall be two 
feet six inches long ; the middle pieces, six inches 
broad, in the narrowest place, clear of sap ; and the 
cantle pieces of the same breadth, in the widest part, 
clear of sap ; both sorts, three quarters of an inch 
thick, with not more than seven worm holes in each 
piece. 

All boards, plank and timber, shall be good and 
sound, and of the thickness and quality the same as 
declared to be by the seller. 

Rough staves and heading may be sold, if of the 
proper length and breadth, and qualities before-men- 
tioned. 

Inspectors are authorized to search vessels for 
staves, &c. shipped for exportation : opposition in- 



LUMBER, 65 

curs a penalty of fifty pounds : if shipped without in- 
spection, the fine is twenty shillings for every thou- 
sand staves or heading : ten shillings for every thou- 
sand feet of boards, plank or timber, so shipped. 

An account of all lumber, &c. measured and in- 
spected, is to be kept, and of the names of the buyers 
and sellers. The officer must not buy or sell staves, 
&c. of which he is inspector, under a penalty of fifty 
pounds. One half of the penalties and forfeitures in- 
curj-ed by this act, go to the Pennsylvania Hospital : 
the other half, to the informer. Act, 1759. 

All staves, &c. before they are delivered for sale, 
shall be inspected, under a penalty of forfeiting the 
same : one half to the Commonwealth; the other half, 
to the informer. 

Mixing good staves or heading, with cullings, or 
unmerchantable, or uninspected staves or headings, 
incurs a forfeit of the whole so mixed. 

Leogan staves, used for sugar hogsheads, may be 
exported, if four feet six inches long, three and a half 
inches broad, including sap, if it be sound ; and half 
an inchthick,but subject to inspection. —Act. 1790. 

By an act of March 30, 1803, no staves shall be 
deemed merchantable, which are not three inches 
wide. 

Fees are as follow. For inspecting and examin- 
ing boards and plank, according to superficial mea- 
sure, for every thousand feet, thirty-three cents* 
Other timber, reduced to cubical feet, for every ton, 
(consisting of cubical feet,) one half to be paid by 
the buyer, and the other by the seller, thirteen cents: 
inspecting and culling the first and second sorts of 
shingles, per thousand, twenty cents : the third kind, 
thirteen cents.- Act, 1790. 

By an act of March 20, ISIO, the fee for inspect- 
ing staves and heading, was fixed at 25 cents for eve- 
ry customary thousand. 

F2 



66 BLACK OAK BARK. 



For several years past, great quantities of bark of 
a particular variety of black oak, for dying, have 
been exported in powder, to Europe. 

No ground black oak bark may be shipped, ex- 
cept such, as in the opinion of the inspector, shall 
have been shaved, clean from the ross, or outside 
bark ; ground sufficiently fine, and be free from da- 
mage by wet, mould, or otherwise : well packed in 
good and sufficient casks ; having at least twelve 
hoops thereon, together with lining hoops on each 
end, well secured. 

Bark shall be put up and packed in casks, marked 
in plain and legible characters, " first and second 
quality," as its quality and manufacture may merit, 
together with the word " Philadelphia," and the 
name of the inspector : no casks shall be so marked, 
except the same shall be found free from all mix- 
ture with oak bark, tan, or extraneous matter ; from 
damage by wet, mould, or otherwise. Bark so mix- 
ed, or damaged, shall be branded with the letter C. 
Persons defacing such mark, shall forfeit twenty dol- 
lars : one half to the prosecutor, the other half to the 
poor. Manufacturers of oak bark, must brand the 
cask on the head, with their name, at full length, un- 
der the penalty of one dollar for each cask omitted 
to be so marked: the inspector shall be entitled to 
receive for every ton weight of bark he shall in- 
spect, three dollars : one half to be paid by the sell- 
er, and one half by the buyer, besides cooperage ; 
also six cents per cask, per week, for storage, com- 
puting from the time of inspection. The inspector is 
to weigh bark sent to him, and to furnish the owner 
with an invoice specifying the gross weight, and the 
tare of each cask : for every cask not exceeding ten 
hundred weight, there shall be allowed eight pounds 
lor draft. 



MEASURERS OF GRAIN, &c. 67 

The inspector is empowered to search for bark on 
board of vessels : for obstructing him, the fine is 
one hundred dollars, with a forfeit of the bark : 
twenty dollars is the fine for each cask shipped with- 
out inspection : one half to the use of the officer or 
person prosecuting, the other half to the poor. Con- 
demned bark may be sold for home consumption, and 
unsound bark may be exported, without inspection : 
disputes to be setded by arbitration, as in the case of 
the other articles of domestic produce. 

Measurers of Grain, £sfc. and Weigh Blasters, 

For the purpose of securing justice to both buyer 
and seller, in the continual traffic that takes place be- 
tween citizens, a swornmeasurer of grain of all sorts, 
and salt, and coal, is appointed. All hay likewise, 
brought to the city, is weighed at the public scales: 
and by the certificates of the officers, all the articles 
mentioned, are bought and sold. 

Chamber of Commerce, 

An association of persons, concerned in trade, was 
formed in the year 1801, " for the purposes of aid- 
ing the trade of the city of Philadelphia, by carry- 
ing into effect, such rules and regulations as may 
from time to time, be established, with respect to 
commerce; and the adjustment of mercantile differ- 
ences, between each other," by the name of " The 
Chamber of Commerce." 

Agreeably to the rules of the associatix)n publish- 
ed, they are to meet once a month : thirteen mem- 
bers to constitute a quorum. The officers are, a pre- 
sident, two vice presidents, a treasurer, and a secre- 
tary ; chosen annually, on the first Monday in Janu- 
ary. The secretary is to have a salary, to be fixed by 



68 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. 

the president and vice presidents. On the day of 
their election, or as soon after as possible, the pre- 
sident and vice president, form sixty of the niem-. 
bers of the society, into twelve classes, for the pur- 
pose of serving as monthly committees, for the en- 
suing year : each class to consist of five members ; 
three of whom shall be competent to the transaction 
of business. Members neglecting to attend the meet- 
ings of the committees, pay fifty cents for eveiy ne- 
glect. 

The duty of the monthly committee is, to adjust 
and determine all mercantile disputes which may be 
laid before them ; and to report their proceedings to 
the next general meeting. All awards are to be re- 
corded, with the reasons of the award. 

The members shall in no case, refuse to submit 
any matter of account in dispute, or any mercantile 
difference between them, to the final arbitration or 
adjustment of those members who may be chosen 
for that purpose : but it shall be at the option of the 
parties to submit such difference to the committee of 
the month, or each to choose a member of the soci- 
ety, who, together with the chairman of the month, 
shall determine the matter in dispute. Members re- 
fusing to conform to the rules of the society, forfeit 
membership. The subscription is, five dollars on 
entrance, and eight dollars yearly. Members must be 
citizens of the United States, and residents in Phi- 
ladelphia ; and must be nominated one month before 
they can be chosen. 

Survey of damaged ships and cargoes. 

The following mode of procedure is adopted, to 
determine the quantum of damage sustained on board 
vessels, by stress of weather. 



SURVEY OF DAMAGED SHIPS AXD CARGOES. 69 

A writ issues upon application by the master, from 
the district court, directed to three persons, two of 
whom are masters of ships, and one a merchant, for 
a survey on ship and cargo " (taking to their assist- 
ance, any ship carpenter, or other tradesman, if they 
shall think it necessary,) and to estimate the amount 
of damage, wastage, or loss, if any, which the said 
cargo, or any part thereof, may have sustained, and 
the occasion thereof." The hatches are accordingly 
examined, the discharge of the cargo takes place, 
and the injured packages marked. The consignee 
takes them home, when a more minute examination 
takes place, and the quantum of damage of each 
package being ascertained, an account of it is taken 
agreeably to original invoice, and signed by the con- 
signee. The report thereon is made by the surveyors 
on oath or affirmation, and remains on record. A sale 
at auction is then ordered, of the damaged part, for 
account of the concerned : the proceeds whereof, are 
credited in account, and the first cost and charges 
being deducted, the loss is ascertained. 

Where the damage is deemed to arise from de- 
ficient dunnage, or from placing a perishable arti- 
cle in contact with dry goods, the vessel and owner 
are liable. In such cases, the consignee or owner, 
may have an offer of the damaged part, at first cost 
and charges, but if not accepted, recourse is had, as 
before, to sale by auction. 

When a ship is dismasted, or otherwise injured, 
by stress of weather, a special examination takes 
place of the protest and log book, and of the master 
and mariners on board, touching the disaster ; and 
orders are issued for repairs. When these are com- 
pleted, the bills are brought to the surveyors, who 
separate the charges incident to the disaster, from 
those resulting from the decay of the ship ; and a 
report as in the former case is lodged in the office* 



70 PORT WARDENS. 

When a ship puts back in distress, and it becomes 
necessary to discharge the cargo, a writ is obtained 
for a survey, as in other cases; and after examination 
by the surveyors, their certificate issues to the cus- 
tom-house, for a permit to discharge the cargo, if 
necessary. An inquiry respecting the cause of the 
disaster, the order for repairs, the examination of the 
bills for the same, and report take place as before. 

The ability and impartiality, with which the duties 
of the surveyors of Philadelphia have been discharg- 
ed, has caused a general confidence to be reposed in 
their reports, by underwriters at home and abroad. 

Wardens of the Fort, 

A board of Wardens was established by law, at an 
early date, and in 1803, anew law was passed on the 
subject: by this, the governor is authorized to appoint 
annually, one master Warden and six assistants, with 
power to use a seal, and to appoint a clerk, whose 
minutes of the transactions of the board are open to 
the public. 

The master Warden is bound to attend every day^ 
from ten to one o'clock, at the office ; and once a 
month the full board are to meet, to grant licences to 
pilots, to make rules for their government ; to decide 
all differences between masters, owners, and con- 
signees of vessels, or pilots : to direct the mooring 
of ships, and the order in which they shall lie, load, 
or unload at the wharves ; and to make and ordain 
penalties for the breach of their rules and orders. 
An appeal from their decision to the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas is allowed, provided it be made within six 
days. The Wardens are exempted from serving on 
juries. The assistants receive no pay : that of the 
Master Warden is S2 50, daily. The salary of the 
clerk is $500 annually. The Wardens must take an 



PILOTS. n 

Qath of office. The accounts of the office are to be 
settled quarterly, by the Register General ; and if it 
shall appear that the monies paid into the office are 
insufficient to defray the expenses of it, the Governor 
is authorized to draw on the State Treasurer for the 
amount of such deficiency : but it must not exceed 
^800. 

No person is permitted to make any obstruction to 
a free cart passage along the wharves, under a pen- 
alty of ^100: it made, the Wardens are authorized 
to remove the same. Persons desirous of extending* 
a whari into the river, must make application, under 
a heavy penalty, to the Board, who are to determine 
whether the wharf will not encroach upon or injure 
the channel, and approve or disapprove the measure. 
The wardens are also authorized to fix and determine 
the extent and distance to which wharves may be 
built in Schuylkill, on either of its shores, from the 
lower falls, to its junction with the river Delaware.* 

No burning or breaming vessels is permitted at 
any wharf between Cedar street and Vine street, 
under a penalty of one hundred and fifty dollars. 

Pilots. 

There are three classes of Pilots. The first are 
permitted to pilot vessels of any depth of water : the 
second, those of twelve feet or under: the third, those 
of nine feet or under. Every pilot must serve an 
apprenticeship of six years to a first rate pilot. In 
four years, he may, if found qualified, take out a li- 
cence for the third class : alter one year more he 
may take out one for the second class. At the end 
of the sixth year, he may become a first rate pi- 
lot. The licences must be annually renewed. The 



* Act, March 28th, 1805. 



72 PILOTS. 

indentures of pilots are recorded in the warden's 
office : previously to granting any licence, the pilot 
must conduct a square rigged vessel, twice up and 
down the river, under the inspection of a pilot of 
the first branch. Pilots must give bond for the 
faithful performance of their duty. If required, they 
must shew their licences to the master of any vessel 
they may take charge of. Extra services of pilots are 
to be paid for agreeably to the determination of the 
board of wardens, provided the parties cannot agree. 
Vessels outward bound are to remain twenty-four 
hours at the capes, to give the pilots an opportunity 
to be taken out ; in case of refusal so to do on the 
part of the captain, pilots are entitled to a sum not 
exceeding 800 dollars. If carried to sea, first branch 
pilots receive captain's wages until their death, or re- 
turn ; if a second rate pilot be carried oflF, he is en- 
titled to the wages of first mate : if a third rate pilot, 
to the wages of seamen. If they have no boat attending 
them, they are only to be entitled to half the afore- 
said wages. Tw^o dollars per day, are allowed to 
pilots detained by ice, or by the master or owner, or 
while performing quarantine : if prevented by ice 
or other causes from entering the port of Philadel- 
phia, and are compelled to proceed to another port, 
they are entitled to full pilotage, and to eight cents 
mileage. Pilots occasioning the loss of vessels by 
carelessness, are suspended and fined by the warden, 
and subject to prosecution for damages at common 
law. 

Fifty cents are paid for a licence. The rates of 
pilotage for inward bound vessels are as follows. 

For every half foot of water drawn by a vessel, up 
to twelve ieet, one dollar and thirty three cents ; 
above twelve feet, one dollar sixty seven cents. 

Outward bound vessels pay as follows. 



HARBOUR MASTER; 73 

For every half foot of water up to twelve feet, 
one dollar : more than twelve feet, one dollar thirty 
three cents. For every vessel not registered in the 
United States, they are to receive two dollars and 
sixty seven cents : and for conducting vessels up to 
the city from 20th November to 10th of March, the 
additional sum of ten dollars. Compensation for 
conducting to or from the city all crippled vessels^ 
which may have required extra care and trouble, is 
not to exceed double the amount of what they other- 
wise would have been entitled to, of which the war- 
dens shall judge. 

All vessels arriving from foreign ports, and every 
vessel of seventy-five tons, outward bound, must re- 
ceive a pilot : the master is required to report to 
the warden's office the name of the vessel, her draught 
of water, and the pilot's name, within thirty-six hours 
after her arrival j and if outward bound, before she 
leaves the port, under a penalty of sixty dollars. 
Masters refusing to take a pilot, pay a sum equal 
to half pilotage of the vessel, for the benefit of dis- 
tressed and decayed pilots. 

Pilots are to report to the office, the vessels they 
bring up. For making a false report, they pay a fine of 
twelve dollars. Injuries sustained in their boats in re- 
lieving vessels are to be made good by the owner 
of the vessel. Pilots neglecting to attend their duty 
for two weeks, forfeit their licence. 

Harbour Master* 

In the year 1793, The useful office of Harbour 
Master was established. He is authorized to en- 
force and superintend the execution of the laws of 
the Commonwealth, of the City Corporation, and the 
bye laws of the wardens, for cleaning the docks, pre- 
venting nuisances at the wharves ; for regulating 

G 



74 MANUFACTURES. 

and stationing ships in the stream, or at the wharves ; 
and for removing vessels to accommodate others ; 
his compensation is one dollar, for every vessel 
above 75 tons burthen. 

Manufactures, 

Philadelphia has long been celebrated for her 
various manufactures ; and they have much increas- 
ed in variety and extent, since the late interruption 
to our foreign commerce. It would be inconsistent 
with the nature of this work, to enter minutely into 
this subject ; but a general view of them may be 
given. 

The various coarser metallic articles, which enter 
so largely into the wants and business of mankind, 
are manufactured to a great extent, in a variety of 
forms, and in a substantial manner. All the various 
edged tools for mechanics are extensively made ; and 
it may be mentioned as a fact calculated to excite 
surprise, that our common screw augur, an old and 
extensively useful instrument, has been recently an- 
nounced in the British publications, as a capital im- 
provement in mechanics, as it certainly is, and that 
all attempts by foreign artists to make this instrument 
durable, have failed. 

The finer kinds of metals are wrought with neat- 
ness and taste. The numerous varieties of tin ware 
in particular, may be mentioned as worthy of atten- 
tion. But above all, the working of the precious met- 
als has reached a degree of periection highly credita- 
ble to the artists. Silver plate fully equal to ster- 
ling, as to quality and execution is now made, and the 
plated w^ares are superior to those commonly import- 
ed in the way of trade. Floor cloths of great variety 
of patterns, without seams, and the colours bright, 
hard and durable , various printed cotton stuffs. 



MANUFACTURES. 73 

warranted fast colours; earthen ware, yellow and red, 
and stone ware are extensively made ; experiments 
shew, that ware equal to that of Staffordshire might 
be manufactured, if workmen could be procured. 

The supply of excellent patent shot is greater than 
the demand. All the chemical drugs, and mineral 
acids of superior quality, are made by several per- 
sons : also, cards, carding and spinning machines 
for cotton, flax, and wool. Woollen, worsted, and 
thread hosiery have long given employment to our 
German citiz :ns : and recently, cotton stockings have 
been extensively made. 

Paints of twenty-two different colours, brilliant and 
durable, are in common use, from native materials ; 
the supply of which is inexhaustible. The chromate 
of lead, that superb yellow colour, is scarcely equal- 
led by any foreign paint. There are fifteen rope-walks 
in our vicinity. We no longer depend upon Eurape 
for excellent and handsome paper hangings, or paste- 
board, or paper of any kind. The innumerable arti- 
cles into which leather enters, are neatly and substan- 
tially made ; the article sadlery forms an immense 
item in the list. The leather has greatly improved 
in quality ; the exportation of boots and shoes to 
the southern states is great ; and to the West Indies 
before the interruption to trade, was immense. 
Morocco leather is extensively manufactured. The 
superiority of the carriages, either as respects ex- 
cellence of workmanship, fashion, or finish, has long 
been acknowledged. The type-foundery of Binny & 
Ronaldson, supplies nearly all the numerous printing 
offices in the United States. There are one hundred 
and two hatters in the city and liberties. Tobacco in 
every form, gives employ to an immense capital. The 
refined sugar of Philadelphia has long been celebra- 
ted : ten refineries are constantly at work. Excellent 
japanned and pewter ware : muskets, rifles, fowling 



re MANUFACTURES. 

pieces and pistols are made with great neatness. The 
cabinet ware is elegant, and with the manufactory 
of wood generally, is very extensive. The houses, are 
ornamented with marble of various hues and quali- 
ties, from the quarries near Philadelphia. 

Mars Works, at the comer of Ninth and Vine 
streets, and on the Ridge road, the property of Oli- 
ver Evans, consists of an iron foundery, mould-ma- 
ker's shop, steam engine manufactory, black-smith's 
shop, and mill-stone manufactor)^, ^nd a steam engine 
used for grinding sundry materials, for the use of the 
works, and for turning and boreing heavy cast and 
wrought iron work. The buildings occupy one hun- 
dred and eighty eight feet front, and about thirty five 
workmen are daily employed. They manufacture 
all cast or wrought iron work, for machinery for 
mills, for grinding grain, or sawing timber; for forges, 
rolling and slitting mills, sugar mills, apple mills, bark 
mills, &c. Pans of all dimensions used by sugar boilers, 
soap boilers, &c. Screws of all sizes for cotton presses, 
tobacco presses, paper presses, cast iron gudgeons, and 
boxes for mills and waggons, carriage boxes, &c. and 
all kinds of small wheels and machinery for cotton and 
wool spinning &c.Mr.Evans also makes steam engines 
on improved principles, invented and patented by the 
proprietor, which are more powerful and less compli- 
cated, and cheaper than others; requiring less fuel^ 
and not more than one fiftieth part of the coals 
commonly used. The small one in use at the v/orks, 
is on this improved principle, and is of great use in 
facilitating the manufactory of others. The proprie- 
tor has erected one of his improved steam engines 
in the town of Pittsburgh, and em.ployed to drive three 
pair of large millstones with all the machinery for 
cleaning the grain, elevating, spreading and stirring, 
and cooling the meal, gathering and bolting, &c. &c. 
The power is equal to twenty four horses, and will 



MANUFACTURES. 77 

do as much work as seventy-two horses m twenty- 
four hours; it would drive five pair of six feet mill- 
stones, and grind five hundred bushels of wheat in 
twenty-four hours. 

All kinds of castings are also made at the Eagle 
works, on Schuylkill, belonging to S. & W. Richards. 

Breweries — Distilleries^ 

Beer was brewed in Philadelphia for several years 
before the revolutionary war, and soon after peace 
the more substantial porter was made by the late Mr. 
Robert Hare. Until within three or four years, the 
consumption of that article had greatly increased, 
and is now the common table drink of every family 
in easy circumstances. The quality of it is truly ex- 
cellent : to say that it is equal to any of London, 
the usual standard for excellence, would undervalue 
it, because as it regards either wholesome qualities 
or palatableness, it is much superior ; no other in- 
gredients entering into the composition than malt, 
hops, and pure water : and yet to a foreign porter 
palate, accustomed to the impression left by the com- 
bination of the heterogenous compound called Eng- 
lish malt liquor,* our home brewed stuff will no 
doubt appear insipid. A fair experiment has shewn 
them, that even so far back as 1790,f Philadelphia 
porter bore the warm climate of Calcutta, and came 
back uninjured. In 1807, orders were given by the 
merchants of Calcutta, after tasting some of it taken 



* It appears from British publications, that owing to the exces- 
-sive duty upon hops and malt in England, very little of those 
articles are now used in the manufacture of beer, porter, and ^le. 
The substitutes are tobacco, aloes, liquorice, quassia root, and 
^reen vitriol. 

\ Carey's American Museum, vol. 10- p. 7. 
g2 



7B MANUFACTtrRES» 

out as stores, for sixty hogsheads. Within a few 
years, pale ale of the first quality is brewed, and justly 
esteemed, being light, sprightly, and free from that 
bitterness which distinguishes porter. Coleman's 
deserves particular notice. The quantity of each 
particular malt liquor brewed in Philadelphia, can- 
not be given, as there is no excise, nor duty up- 
on hops or malt, and if there be no other mode of 
ascertaining the point, it is to be hoped we shall 
ever remain ignorant on the subject* Great quan- 
tities of porter, ale, and beer, are exported to the other 
States. The hops are almost entirely brought from 
New England ; much of the barley comes from the 
same quarter, especially Rhode Island. 

The distilleries of rum, whiskey, and for rectifying, 
are numerous: and the improvements in the art are ge- 
neral and great. The preperation of gin has become an 
important business, and its exportation regular and 
extensive. We still howevei', want the knowledge of 
the peculiar art, of giving it that flavour which justly 
renders the Holland gin so deservedly esteemed. 
The discovery of the principle upon which this de» 
pends, remains for some enterprizing American. 

The taste and merit of the mechanics are exhib- 
ited in no respect miore clearly, than in the general 
construction of shipping ; which commonly sail well, 
V/ork easily, and are very strong. Various improve- 
Tnents, it is understood, have been introduced, tend- 
ing to increase their capacity, without diminishing 
their strength or power of sailing. In the accommo- 
dations too, and arrangements for passengers, when 
built with that view, they are very convenient. Their 
external appearance is much improved by the skill of 
that excellent carver, William Rush, who without 
the advantage of seeing any good models, or hav- 
ing any instruction from great masters, has arrived 
to much eminence in his art, and is thought to sur- 



MANUFACTURES. f^ 

pass ariy naval carver in Europe. This is a bold 
assertion; but the voluntary expression of admira- 
tion excited in Europe by his elegant figures, and the 
opportunities of comparison with the works of Eu- 
ropeans, afforded by commerce, in every part of the 
world, and even the opinion of British artists, may 
be adduced in its justification. The striking likeness 
of Mr. John Adams, late president of the United 
States, as a head for the frigate bearing his name, and 
of others, from memory alone, are full proofs of the 
powers of his mind, and the success of his chisel. 

Before the American war, a considerable spirit 
prevailed for the culture of the silk worm : and a so- 
ciety was established for its encouragement, with a 
fund for the purchase of the raw material. The 
common black mulberry, was found to answer well 
for the food of the insect. A filature was also 
erected under the direction of the society, on the 
present site of the University in Ninth street. In 
one instance, a lady in the vicinity of Philadelphia, 
raised on her father's farm, as many worms as pro- 
duced a piece of silk, of more than fifty yards in 
length ; it was manufactured in London, under the 
care of Dr. Franklin, in 1772. 

The following is a short abstract of the marshal's 
report of the Manufactures in the city and county of 
Philadelphia. 

Looms - - - 273 
Spinning-wheels, - 3,648 



Oil Mills, 


3 




Carriage makers, 


17 


/value of work last 
tyear ^498,500 


Soap and Candle makers, 


28 




Glue Manufactures, 


14 




Distilleries 


18 


/gallons distilled m 
tl810, 12,83818 






Sugar Refineries, 


10 





80 HISTORY OF THE PRESS. 



Ropewalks, 


15 


Potteries, 


16 


Tobacco and Snuff, 


27 


Copper Brass and Tin, 


44 


Hatters Shops, 


102 


Paper Mills, 


7 


Printing Offices, 


51 


Cutlers, - - - 


28 


Gunsmiths 


10* 


Glass works, 


2 



The above is generally deemed under the actual 
number of the distilleries, mechanics and manufactu- 
rers. 

Press — Histo ry — Progress — Present state* 

Among the numerous respectable men, and useful 
mechanics, who early emigrated to the new world, 
was William Bradford, printer, who in less than six 
weeks after the city was founded, established a press. 



* Abstract of the amount of the annual manufactures, manufac- 
turing establishments, &c. in the Commonwealth of Pennsylva- 
nia, as per the return of the assistants to the marshal of the dis- 
trict, for the year 1810. 

Manufactures in Flax, Hemp, Wool, and Cotton, jg4,279,174 

In Grain, Fruit, &c 15,778,424 

In Leather, . 3,155,967 

In Lead, .......... 296,800 

In Iron, 5,869,487 

In Tanneries I,6a7,8u4 

Manufacturing Establishments in Cotton, Wool,") * o-,^ no^ 

Hemp, and Flax,5 h^'^^^^ol 

Hats 1,296,346 

Paper, &c. . 1,227,766 

Miscellaneous, . . . 3^7,883,892 

964,966 
6.;3,113 
_»„...«™ ..... 9,451,941 

^44,194,740 



HISTORY OF PRINTING. 81 

The first specimen of his work, is a sheet almanac,^ 
for the year 1687, in twelve compartments ; the year 
beginning with March, and ending with February, as 
was usual, before the 18th century. A copy of this <::?a^ 
^m&t specimen of American typography, is preserved 
in the public library of Philadelphia. The place of 
his residence is not certainly known : but in 1689, 
another work, on the subject of the New England 
Churches, by G. Keith, is dated in that year, in 
Philadelphia. — Disputes having arisen in the So- 
ciety of Friends, Bradford took part with the mi- 
nority, and published the pamphlets of Keith and 
Thomas Budd, against the governing party, which 
occasioned the imprisonment of himself and friends, 
and induced him after his liberation, to settle in New 
York,! ^^ which place he removed in 1690. 

Reinier Jansen, evidently a Dutchman by name, 
but of whose history, no facts are on record; manag- 
ed Bradford's Press m Pennsylvania in his own name, 
after the removal of the latter to New York, until 
the year 1712, when Andrew Bradford, son of Wil- 
liam, came from New York, and from that time un- 
til 1723, was the only printer in the colony. In 
1719, he printed the first newspaper m Pennsylvania, 
in company with John Copson ; it was entitled the 
'-' American Weekly IMercury," and printed on a 
half sheet of paper. He also printed the Almanacs 
of Jacob Taylor, Titan Leed, John Jerman, and 
William Birket for several years. — In 1723, a se- 

* The title of this work, is *' An Ahuanac for the year of the 
Christian account, 1687 ; particularly respecting the meridian 
and latitude of Burlington, but may indifferently suit all places 
adjacent. By Daniel Leeds, Student in Agriculture. Printed and 
sold by William Bradford, near Philadelphia, in Pennsylvania 
pro. Anno. I687." — Thomas's History of Printing, p. 1 — 8. 

f The particulars are detailed in the History of Printing, in 
America, by Isaiah Thomas : a work which will amply repay the 
reader for the perusal. 



S2 HISTORY OF THE PRESS, 

cond printing office was opened by Samuel Keimer, 
of whom several curious anecdotes are given by Dr» 
Franklin,^ and I. Thomas. — He printed the second 
newspaper in Pennsylvania, commencing December 
24, 1728, and entitled the " Universal Instructor in 
all Arts and Sciences, and Pennsylvania Gazette." 
It was a folio sheet. After the return of Franklin 
from England (in 1727,) he united for a short time 
with Hugh Meridith, and continued Keimer's pa- 
per, on a whole or a half sheet, as occasion required. 
In 1747-8, it was published by Franklin and D. 
Hall, on a whole sheet, crown folio, and afterwards 
enlarged. The successors of Hall, continue this pa- 
per weekly under the title of the " Pennsylvania Ga- 
zette." 

William Bradford, grandson of the first William, 
commenced printing a weekly paper in 1742, which 
was continued by him andhis successors until about the 
year 1797. Various others succeeded,! some of which 
were given up, and some continue. A German news- 
paper was printed weekly in Philadelphia, so early as 
1743, by Joseph Crellius, under the direction of the 
late Rev. Dr. Smith, provost of the college of Phila- 
delphia, who had also the management of the German 
press, an appointment he received from a benevolent 
society in London, instituted for " promoting religi- 



* Franklin's life. 
f Pennsylvania Chronicle From 1767 to 1775 Goddard 
Pen. Packet 1771 Dunlap 

Pen. Ledger 1775 1776 Humphreys 

Pen. Evering Post 1775 Towne 

Pen. Mercury 1775 1775 Story and 

Humphreys 
Phila. Gazette German 1762 1779^ 

Freeman's Journal 1781 1792 Bailey 

Independent Gazetteer 1781 1796 Oswald 

i Thomas's History of Printing. 



PERIODICAL WORKS, 83 

ous knowledge among the Germans in Pennsylva- 
nia." A German paper had been printed quarterly 
in the year 1739, at Germantown, seven miles from 
Philadelphia, by C. Sower, who cast his own types, 
and made his own ink. It was afterwards printed 
monthly, and in 1744, every week, under the title of 
" The Germantown Gazette, by C. Sower, jun." until 
some time in the revolutionary war. 

The " Pennsylvania Packet, or General Adverti- 
ser," was first printed weekly by John Dunlap in 1771, 
and continued at Lancaster from 1778 to 1779, 
while the British had possession of Philadelphia: on 
the evacuation of the cit}^, it was published twice a 
week ; in the year 1784, in conjunction with David 
C. Claypoole, who had served his time with Mr. 
Dunlap, it was printed daily ; this was the first daily 
paper printed in the United States. — In 1801, the 
paper was sold to Zachariah Poulson, who continues 
it to this day, under a very respectable patronage, — 
the title is '* The American Daily Advertiser." 

At present there are printed in Philadelphia, eight 
daily papers, — viz. 

Morning. 
Poulson's American Daily Advertiser, 1 784 
Duane, . . Aurora, . 1790 

Bradford . True American, 1797 

M'Corkle . Freeman's Journal, 1804 

Evening* 
Relf . Philadelphia Gazette. 1788 

Bronson . Gazette U. States. 1791 

Jackson . Register, . 1804 

Binns . Democratic Press. 1807 

Three times a week. 
Duane, McCorkle, Binns. 

Twice a week, ^ 

Bronson. 
Weekly. 
Hall and Pierie Pennsylvania Gazette® 



84 HISTORY OF PRINTING. 

Duane 
Binns 

Conrad Gentler,! Ameritanischer Beobachter, 
JohnGeyer, ^ ^^^^^^^ 

German. J 
Repertory 
* Helmbold Tickler — occasionally. 

It has been ascertained that 19,298 impressions 
of the above papers are distributed every week.f 

It may be useful to notice the other periodical and 
literary works, published in former times in Phila- 
delphia. 

In 1741, Franklin attempted " the General Ma- 
gazine, and Historical Chronicle, in 12 mo. price 
12s, per annum," but continued it only six months. 

A. Bradford printed in 1741 for the editor and 
proprietor, John Webbe, " The American Maga- 
zine, in 8vo." two numbers of which only appeared. 

In 1757, William Bradford, printed " The Ame- 
rican Magazine, or Monthly Chronicle," for the 
British colonies ; By a society of gentlemen. Three 
numbers only were printed. 

In 1769, Lewis Nichola, published "The Ame- 
rican Magazine," each number containing 48 pages. 
It ended with the year. " The Penny Post," by 
Potts, succeeded for a few months. 

In 1771, John M'Gibbons published a few num- 
bers of " The Royal Spiritual Magazine." 

In 1775, the late Robert Aitken published " The 
Pennsylvania Magazine, or American Monthly 
Museum," the editor of which was Thomas Paine. 
It was well conducted, and may be read at the pre- 
sent day with entertainment and profit. It began in 
January 1775, and closed in July 1776. 



* Thomas enumerates 71 papers in the state of Pennsylvania, 
f Robinson's Directory. 



/ 

HISTORY OF PRINTING. 85 

In the year 1779, Francis Bailey, printed nine 
numbers of the " United States Magazine." 

In the year 1786, the " Columbian Magazine'^ 
was began by Mathew Carey, Charles Cist and 
William Spottswood. It was published monthly, for 
about eight years. Shortly after its commencement, 
the sole proprietorship devolved upon William 
Spottswood, who, after the lapse of about three 
years, sold it to Mr. William Young, who finally 
discontinued it in 1793. Considering the situation 
of the country at the time, this work was respecta- 
bly conducted. 

In January 1787, Mathew Carey commenced the 
publication of the American Museum, which was 
intended to combine the plan of a common miscel- 
laneous magazine, and historical chronicle, or regis- 
ter of the times. It was ably conducted, and it is 
sincerely to be regretted that want of encourage- 
ment obliged the editor and proprietor to relinquish 
his useful labours. Twelve volumes in a regular se- 
ries were published. A thirteenth volume was pub- 
lished in 1798. Every public library in the United 
States, ought to possess a copy of this work. 

Previously to the establishment of the federal go- 
vernment, the book trade v\^as of small account ; 
some foreign works of merit were however pub- 
lished. But at the sera mentioned, the business par- 
took of that increased life and vigour, which the new 
state of public affairs universally diffused. Since 
that time, the increase of printing, and of the arts 
connected therevr ith, bjii\*c been very rapid in Phila- 
delphia. A^i'^ 

In 1786, four book-sellers thought an edition of 
the New Testament, for schools, a work of risque, 
requiring inuch consultation previously to the deter- 
mination of the measure : yet such was the rapid 
progress of things, that in 1790, one of the book- 

H 



B6- HISTORY Or PRINTING^ 

sellers above referred to, thought it safe to risque 
the publication of the Encyclopaedia, in eighteen 
quarto volumes, and even promised that it should be 
improved. When the lirst half volume v/as publish- 
ed, in 1790, he had but 246 subscribers, and could 
onlv procure two or three engravers. One thousand 
copies of the first volume were printed : two thou- 
sand of the second ; and when he had completed the 
eighth, the subscription extended so far as to render 
it necessary to reprint the lirst. He then found diffi- 
culty in procuring printers for the work.* 

In 1792, Ebenezer Hazard Esq. published a quar- 
to volume of " Historical collections," intended as 
materials for a history of the United States, and ano- 
ther in 1794. These collections were the result of 
much assiduous application, and made under the 
patronage of Congress, whose recommendation pro- 
cured him access to the records of the state legisla- 
tures. 

The quarto Bible, set up by Mathew Carey, in Phi- 
ladelphia, was the first standing Bible, of that size, in 
the world, and is even now, the only one of separate 
types. These were cast by Binney and Ronaldson, of 
Philadelphia. Printing is now executed in a style 
equal to that of any country in Europe ; and some 
specimens of truly superb work, as Barlow's Colum- 
biad, and Willson's Ornithology, have been sent 
forth. The plates in Bradford and Inskeep's edition 
of Ree's Cvclopsedia, now in progress, are much su- 
perior to those in the original English work j and 
the printing, fully equal thereto. 

The number of volumes printed in Philadelphia, 
annually, are calculated at 500,000.* There are fifty- 
one printing offices, which have 153 presses. f 



* Hopkinson's oration before the Academy of Fine Arts. No- 
vember, 1810.— p. 19. 

J Robinson's Directory, for 1811. 



PERIODICAL PUBLICATIONS. 87 

There are upwards of sixty engravers in Philadel- 
phia, and twenty more would find constant employ. 
The improyement of the art has been very conside- 
rable, within a few years past. 

Periodical Publications, 

The following periodical works are at present pub- 
lished in Philadelphia. 

Monthly, 

1. The Port Folio, by Joseph Dennie : a miscel- 
laneous work. It was at first a weekly sheet, and 
commenced in 1801. Bradford and Inskeep. Price S6. 

2. Mirror of Taste and Dramatic Censor. T. B« 
Zantzinger, & Co. Price %%, 

3. Select Reviews and Spirit of the Magazines. 
By E. Bronson, and others, 1809. Earl. Price !^5. 

^larterly. 

4. Me^lical Museum. By J. R. Coxe, M. D . 

Humphreys. 7 vols. Price ^2. 

5. Eclectic Repertory, and Analytical Review, 
Medical and Philosophical ; by a society of Physi- 
cians, 1810. Earl. Price ^3. 

6. Archives of Useful Knowledge. Devoted to 
commerce, manufactures, rural and domestic econo- 
my, agriculture, and the useful arts. By James 
Mease, M. D.— Hogan. Price ^2. 

7. American Review of history, politics, and ge^ 
neral repository of literature and state papers. By 
Robert Walsh, jun.—-Farrand and NichoUs. Price ^6. 



88 LAW REPORTS. 



Serai- annually* > 

8. American Register, or General Repository of 
History, Politics and Science. Commenced in 180&. 
7 volumes.— C. and A. Conrad. Price ^3 25. 



Occasional Laxv Reports, 

Reports of cases adjudged in the Supreme Court 
of Pennsylvania. By Horace Binncy. Farrand and 
Nicholls. Tv/o volumes have been published. Price 
B6 each. 

Reports of cases adjudged in the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas, of the first district. By P. A. Browne. 
1 vol.—D. Hogan. Price 1^3. 

Former Government of Philadelphia', 

The first frame of Government published by Penn 
in England, for his new Province, had evidently been 
drawn from the celebrated "Oceana" of Harrington ; 
a work which theoretical writers have supposed, ex- 
hibits the best picture of a perfect Commonwealth. 
Penn soon found upon bringing his principles to the 
test of experience, that they were not suited to the 
midtiplied wants of men bustling in the scenes of 
active life, nor to calm the jealousies and contend- 
ing interests of a people engaged in the arduous task 
of subduing the wilderness. 

The government was vested in a Governor, and 
freemen constituting a council ; one third of which 
vv^as to be chosen for three years, one third for two 
years, and one third lor one year, in such a manner 
that there should be an annual succession of 
twenty four new members. The council was to con- 
sist of seventy two members, to be chosen by the 
freemen ; the governor, or his representative was 



FORMER GOVERNMENT B9 

to be perpetual President, but only had a treble 
vote. The general assembly in the true democratic 
style, was at first to consist of all the freemen ; af- 
terwards of two hundred, and never to exceed five 
hundred. 

This singular frame was abolished in a few months 
after the arrival of Penn, and another granted on the 
second of April 1683 : but such was the difficulty of 
either fixing on the most eligible form, or of fully 
satisfying the adventurers, that this was also given 
up, as well as another passed on the seventh of No» 
vember 1696 ; and it was not until the year 1701,* 
during the last visit of the proprietary, that the charter 
w^as granted which lasted until the commencement of 
the American revolution. 

The charter of the city of Philadelphia was dated 
the 25th October 1701. Before that day, Philadel- 
phia was called the town. 

By this charter William Penn nominated the first 
mayor, recorder, aldermen and common councilmen^ 
and granted them, among other privileges andfran- 
chises, that of electing others to supply vacancies, and 
even to increase their own number at pleasure ; the 
public grounds were granted to them by the name of 
the mayor and commonalty of the city of Philadel- 
phia, but the commonalty had no share in the gov- 
ernment or estate of the city, the whole body being 
self-elective, and not accountable to the citizens in 
any respect. It would be difficult to account for so 
extraordinary a charter from the wisdom of William 
Penn, did not we know that among the first settlers^ 
were a considerable number from the city ot Bristol 
inEngland, whose charter granted at an early period, 
before the rights of the commonalty were well under- 

* 28tli October, 

H 2 ^ 



90 FORMER GOVERNMENT. 

Stood, had been familiarized by habit, which indu- 
ced them to request a similar one : a copy of the 
Bristol charter was accordingly procured, and with 
little variations adopted. It was not long however, 
before the commonalty began to be dissatisfied with 
it, and to make frequent complaints to the assem- 
bly, of the abuses that were practised under it; ma- 
ny of which appear upon the minutes of the house. 
At an early period after the charter, the legislative 
powers of this corporation were very limited : they 
could not levy a shilling by taxes, for any use what- 
ever, and could employ the income of the city estates 
6nly for the use and embellishment of the city ; where- 
fore we see few monuments raised to preserve the 
memory of that corporation. Although the first men 
for integrity and abilities to be found in the city, were 
elected into the office of the body politic, yet such is 
the nature of unlimited power, not accountable to the 
people, that it will divert the best men from purpo- 
ses, which, before they were invested with the pow- 
er, they would have highly approved. The jealous5r 
which the citizens entertained of the corporation, per- 
vaded the general assembly of the province j and 
when the lighting, watching, and paving the city be- 
came a desirable object, the representatives of the 
freemen would not entrust the corporation alone with 
the power of raising or expending the money neces- 
sary for these purposes ; they would not however 
cast such a reflection on the respectable characters 
of which that body was composed, as wholly to vest 
these powers with others : but pursued a middle line, 
and constituted two separate bodies, by the names of 
city wardens and street commissioners, to the former 
of whom, the lighting and watching, and to the latter, 
the paving of the streets, was committed ; the mayor 
or recorder, and four of the aldermen concurring 
with each body, in laying the taxes and prescribing 



FORMER GOVERNMENT. 91 

the mode of expending them ; thus the city legisla- 
tion for these purposes, became compounded of two 
branches : the wardens and commissioners immedi- 
ately elected by the people, in the same manner as 
their representatives in assembly, constituted the de- 
jTiocratic ; and the mayor and aldermen, the aristo- 
cratic branch. These bodies, thus compounded, con- 
ducted the business committed to them, with great 
harmony ; nor is there the least recollection of any 
disagreement between them : the taxes were laid 
with equality, collected with moderation, and expend- 
ed for the real use and improvement of the city : one 
complaint only, had foundation, which arose from 
the nature, rather than from any abuse of the pow- 
ers : the number of wardens and street commission- 
ers was so great, as at very moderate wages, to ren- 
der those boards too expensive. 

For the honour of the late corporation it ought not 
to be omitted, that the mayor's court was always fill- 
ed with an able lawyer for the recorder, and ano- 
ther for the prosecution of criminal offences : and 
such was the orderly and upright administration of 
justice in it, that no court in the province, or perhaps 
any other country, exceeded it. 

The legislature convened after the declaration of 
independence declared, by an act passed during their 
first session " That the powers and jurisdiction hither- 
to exercised by the mayor, recorder, and aldermen of 
the city of Philadelphia, were not founded on the au- 
thority of the people, and are therefore become null 
and void." Wherefore, by that and several subsequent 
acts, the powers of the corporation were distributed 
between the supreme executive council, the city ma- 
gistrates,and the wardens and street commissioners^ 
who exercised them from the year 1777 to 1789. The 
prejudices which had no foundation as to corporations 
in general, but only against the constitution of the late 



92 PRESENT GOVERNMENT. 

corporation of the city, were however so strong, that 
the people could scarcely be prevailed on to submit to 
a new incorporation. The defects in the administra- 
tion of justice, and the police of the city, at length 
became so glaring, as to be seen by all classes of peo- 
ple ; and they were prepared for an act of incorpora- 
tion. 

Frese72t Government, 

The law for incorporating the city of Philadelphia, 
i^ was passed on the 1 1th of March, WS%^ and has been 
amended by several supplements. It may be impor- 
tant to mention the occasion of one of these supple- 
ments. A very wise law had been passed, to prevent 
the erection of wooden buildings, in the thickly set- 
tled parts of the city : and on the penalty of the law 
being about to be enforced, it was held, by some great 
law characters, that as fines, penalties and forfeit- 
ures inured to the benefit of the corporation, no free- 
man thereof was competent to prove the breach of 
the said ordinances, inasmuch as the same would 
operate a diminution of his share of contribution for 
supporting such corporation : but the legislature 
considering that it would be in some cases imprac- 
ticable to prove breaches of laws by any other testi- 
mony, or to determine respecting the same, before 
any other than judges or jurors liable to such ex- 
ceptions, and that the interest of each individual 
in the application of such fines and forfeitures, is 
too inconsiderable to give an improper bias to his 
testimony, resolved in 1 799, that every freeman of the 
city or any corporate town, shall be qualified as a 
witness to prove a breach of the ordinances, except 
he be a pauper, called to give testimony touching 
the breach of any ordinance by which fines or 
penalties are appropriated, and out oi which he re- 



PRESENT GOVERNMENT. 93 

ceives alms, or pensions. Courts, aldermen and bur- 
gesses are also qualified to decide respecting breach- 
es of the ordinances and by-laws; and freemen to 
be competent jurymen, notwithstanding their interest 
as members of the corporation. 

There are two legislative branches, viz. Select and 
Common Councils. The first consist of twelve, the 
latter of twenty members. 

One third of the Select, and the whole of the 
Common Council are chosen annually by the people, 
at the general election on the second Tuesday of Octo- 
ber, and their first business is to appoint a mayor for 
one year, from among the body of aldermen. The 
recorder, and aldermen, of whom there are fifteen, 
are appointed by the governor during good behaviour. 
Both are required to take an oath for the faith- 
ful performance of their duties. 

The whole legislative power of the corporation 
is vested exclusively in the councils, who act as 
separate and distinct bodies, and are authorized 
" to make, ordain, constitute and establish such laws, 
provided the same shall not be repugnant to the 
laws and constitution of the commonwealth, as shall 
be necessary for the government and welfare of the 
city." They are required to publish their laws in 
two or more newspapers of the city, within ten days 
after their being passed, otherwise they shall be null 
and void : and are to be recorded in the office of 
the recorder of deeds. Councils deliberate with open 
doors . AU c.^>-tWt^x^ 

The mayor and aldermen ^ have severally the 
powers of a justice of peace and oyer and terminer. 
The salary of the former is two thousand dollars 
annually, besides fees of office. That of the latter is 
one thousand dollars, with some fees. 
/viie is authorized to appoint a legal character, to 
be attorney for the corporation, whose duty it is 



94 PRESENT GOYERNxMENT. 

to draught all bonds, obligations and contracts, &c. 
requisite to be done and made between the corpo- 
ration and the citizens ; to prosecute all suits brought 
by the corporation, and to defend all actions com- 
menced against it, and to furnish the councils and 
mayor with his opinions on any subject which may 
be submitted to him. 

He also appoints the city commissioners, the high 
constables, watchmen, the corders of wood at the 
public landings, and all other officers of the corpora- 
tion, except those of the council, and the city trea- 
surer. 

The corporate title is, " The Mayor, Aldermen, 
and Citizens of Philadelphia." 

The organization of the city government is upon 
the plan of our State Constitution, and the various 
branches composing it are justly balanced, and their 
powers distinct. The whole authority in the first in- 
stance emanates from the people, the whole are 
amenable for misconduct, and at various but stated 
times, the officers return to the mass of citizens. 
The Common Council represents the freemen ; and 
the danger of hasty resolutions, which so often dis- 
grace single legislatures, is guarded against by the 
election of the Select Council, whose concurrence 
is essential to the adoption of a final measure. 

The mayors in succession since the last incorpo- 
ration, have been, Samuel Powel, Samuel Miles, Mat- 
thew Clarkson, John Barclay, Hilary Baker, John 
Innskeep, Matthew Lawler, John Inskeep, Robert 
Wharton, John Barker, Robert Wharton. 

The recorders, Alexander Willcox, Moses Levy, 
Mahlon Dickerson, Joseph Reed. 

Solicitor, William Merideth. 



PRESENT GOVERNMENT. 95. 

District of Southxvark* 

In 1794, the district of Southwark was incorpora- 
ted. It is bounded on the North by the south side 
of Cedar street, on the West by the west side of 
Passyunk road ; on the South, by a line commencing 
at Wharton's place, running Eastward until it strikes 
Keelor's lane at Moyamensing road, following said 
lane to the Point road ; thence a due east course to 
the Delaware river. The board of commissioners 
consists of fifteen members, one third of whom are 
chosen annually. The annual tax is about ^4,500. 

Northern Liberties, 

In 1803, the inhabitants of that part of the North- 
ern Liberties lying between the west side of Sixth 
street and the river Delaware, and between Vine 
street and Cohocksink creek, were incorporated, and 
are to have perpetual succession, and empowered to 
acquire and hold real and personal estate. Five com- 
missioners are annually chosen to serve for three 
years, who make the usual municipal regulations, 
and execute all the powers incident to the corpora- 
tion. Their accounts are to be annually published. 

Circuit and District Courts, 

The sittings of two of the federal courts, are held 
in Philadelphia, for the Pennsylvania district. The 
Circuit court may, when circumstances, in the opinion 
of the judges, require, sit at York Town, in this dis- 
trict. The District court, generally sits in the city ; 
but may hold its session in any part of the district. 
The stated sessions of the circuit court are held 
twice in every year, viz. On the 11th days of 



96 FEDERAL COURTS. 

April and October, But it may hold special ses- 
sions, when circumstances render them necessary. 
It is a court of much and important business ; which 
is dispatched with commendable promptitude. Its 
judges are now, Bushrod Washington, one of the 
associate judges of the supreme court of the United 
States, with whom is associated, agreeably to law, 
Richard Peters, the district judge. Either judge, in 
the absence of the other, may hold the court. It is a 
court of original jurisdiction, in most of its duties: 
but it is appellate, in cases of appeals from the final 
decisions of the district court : and such appeals are 
decided by the judge of the supreme court alone. 
Errors in point of law are also subjects for the cog- 
nizance and review of this court, when legally brought 
up from the district court. It has criminal, admiral- 
ty, common law, and chancery jurisdiction. The 
two first are exclusive of the state jurisdiction. But 
the crimes, whereof cognizance is here taken, must 
be only those committed against the laws of the Uni- 
ted States, or the laws of nations. The parties in 
civil suits at common law, and in chancery, must be 
on one side or the other, either a foreigner, or a citi- 
zen of another state, adverse to each other. One citi- 
zen of this state cannot, in this court, on the com- 
mon law, or chancery sides, sue another citizen of 
the state, though either be associated with a foreigner, 
or a citizen of another state. One only of the parties 
must be a resident citizen of the state, in suits at com- 
mon law, or in chancery, in which citizens, or a citi- 
zen, is or are, a party or parties, in the cause. 

Appeals from or exceptions to the decisions or di- 
rections of this court, in points of law or in final 
decrees in admiralty or chancery cases, lie to the 
supreme court of the United States. It seems settled, 
that the jury may take upon them to decide both the 



^FEDERAL COURTS. 97 

law and the fact, in criminal cases in this court, and 
in other courts of the United States. 

It is a prominent feature in the federal jurisdiction, 
that the courts are tribunals for national and exteri- 
torial questions ; as well as for individual contro- 
versies wherein foreigners, or citizens of other 
states than those in which suits are brought, are 
concerned. When suits are brought in state courts 
against foreigners, or citizens of other states, and 
especially where titles to lands held are in question 
under grants from different states, the causes may, in 
certain stages of them, be removed to a federal court. 
The District Court is held by the districr 
Judge alone. It has four stated terms, in each year 
——viz. on the third Mondays of the months of 
May, August, November, and February. Special 
sessions are held weekly; and oftener, when business 
requires. This court has four sides ; viz. 

1. Common Law, to a limited extent. 2. Crimi- 
nal, where punishment corporal, or by iines, or im- 
prisonment, does not exceed a certain limit. 3. Reve- 
nue or Exchequer, comprehending all fiscal subjects, 
cognizable under the laws of the United States, 
within the district, in a judiciary tribunal. 4. Admi- 
ralty. This court has original and exclusive cog- 
nizance, with a few recent exceptions, of all revenue 
cases. It has also cognizance original and exclusive 
of all admiralty cases ; and it is as a portion of ad- 
miralty jurisdiction, a prize court. All suits, in reve- 
nue and admiralty cases, must be commenced, and 
in the first instance decided in this court. But ap- 
peals from final decisions lie 1o the circuit court. It 
is a court of much and incessant business ; requiring 
the constant attention of the judge. 

Many causes here are weighty, both in amount, 
principle, and intricacy. Causes of all descriptions., 
must be first finally decided in this court, before they 

I 



98 FEDERAL COURTS. 

can (if so intended) go up to superior courts ; unless, 
by consent, decrees pro forma, are obtained ; and 
this, to accelerate their progress, is sometimes done. 
The decree of the district court is final, and not sub- 
ject to revision in all cases of seamen's wages, 
where the demand does not exceed fifty dollars. 

Certain judges of the state may hear and deter- 
mine cases on Habeas Corpus, though within the fed- 
eral jurisdiction. Specified cases, such as treason, 
piracy, murder, are excepted; and must be heard, 
by a federal judge ; or one of the state, designated. 

Magistrates of the state, may cause offenders 
against the criminal laws of the United States, to 
be apprehended ; and bind them over for trial, to 
the proper court of the United States. They may 
also hear in a summary w^a}?^, on citations, contro- 
versies about mariners' wages. But the dissatisfied 
party, or in case of neglect or refusal to comply 
with the decision of a magistrate by the respondent, 
the complainant, on the certificate of the magistrate, 
may take out process from the District Court for its 
final decision. 

Clerk of the Circuit aud District Courts, David 
Caldwell. Office, 180 Chesnut street. 

Marshal of the district of Pennsylvania, John 
Smith. Office, 102 South Eighth street. 

The Circuit and"^ District Courts sit in the district 
court room, formerly occupied as the senate cham- 
ber of the United States, in the county court house, 
corner of Chesnut and Sixth streets. 

STATE LAW COURTS. 

1. Civil CoiirtS:, 

1. The Supreme court ; which possesses original 
jurisdiction in civil cases, where the matter in con- 



LAW COURTS. 99 

ta^oversy is of the value of five hundred dollars and 
upwards j appellate jurisdiction, by writ of error, to 
the court of common pleas, w^ithout limitation of 
amount ; and has a general superintending authority 
over all inferior jurisdictions. The regular terms are 
in December and March — and there are sittings, for 
the trial of causes by '^ury before a single judge, 
from time to time as the court appoint. Courts of 
Nisi Prius are also held during thirty-three weeks, 
in every year, if the business of the court require^ 
President, William Tilghman. Associates, Jasper 
Yates and H. H. Brackenridge. 

2. Comjnon Pleas* 

By a law of March 1811, the original jurisdiction 
of this court, in all civil cases, is confined to contro- 
versies in which the sum does not exceed one hun- 
dred dollars ; actions for sums above that amount, 
are to be tried in the new " district court." The 
court of common pleas has an apellate jurisdiction, 
by appeal from the judgments of aldermen and jus- 
tices, and by certiorari; and is also invested by the 
legislature equally \nth. the supreme courts, with the 
power of granting and proceeding on writs of parti- 
tion, at the suit of any tenant in common, joint tenant, 
or copartner. President, Jacob Rush. Assistants, John 
Geyer, J. Conrad. It is held four times in each year, 

3. District Court, 

At the last session of the legislature, a new court, 
called the " District Court for the city and county 
of Philadelphia" was established for the space of six 
years, composed of a president with the salary of 
two thousand dollars, and two associates of five hun- 
dred dollars ; any two of whom, in case of the ab- 



100 CRIMINAL COURTS. 

sence or inability of the other, shall have power to 
determine all civil pleas, and exercise the same pow- 
ers, as are now vested in the court of common pleas, 
provided that the sum in controversy shall exceed 
one hundred dollars. 

After the first Monday in June next, all causes de* 
pending in the common pleas, are to be transferred 
to this court, if the sum be above one hundred dollars. 

No suit shall be removed to the district court by 
certiorari or habeas corpus ; but in all cases, the final 
judgment of the said district court may be affirmed 
or reversed on a v/rit of error from the supreme 
court, in a similar manner, and subject to the same 
limitations and provisions, under which writs of error 
are now issued from the supreme court of common 
pleas of the city and county of Philadelphia. 

This district court is to hold four terms in eacli 
year, viz.. in June, September, December, and 
March: if necessary, the judges may sit daily at least 
nine months in the year ; provided that the determi- 
nation of no cause or action should be delayed beyond 
the fourth term, if the parties be prepared for trial 
at the times appointed by the court. If the judges 
delay a cause, in readiness for trial, it shall constitute 
a misdemeanor in office. The court is to be opened 
on the first Monday in May, 1810; and the first re- 
turn day of writs is on the first Monday in June. The 
Prothonatory of the court of common pleas, performs 
the duties of Prothonatory in this court. 

President, Joseph Hemphill. Assistants, Jacob 
Sommer, Anthony Simmons. 

4. The Orphan's Court ; composed of the judges 
of the Court of Common Pleas or any two of them, 
and possessing very extensive and important powers 
in relation to the appointment of guardians for mi- 
nors, the settlements, divisions, and distribution of 
intestate's estates, and the settlement of the accounts, 



CRIMINAL COURTS 101 

and controul of the conduct of guardians, executors 
and administrators. 

It sits on the third Friday in every month. 

5. The Register's Court ; composed of the Register 
of Wills and any two judges of the Court of Common 
Pleas, and exercising a jurisdiction, sometimes ori- 
ginal and sometimes by appeal from the register,, 
in controversies about administrations, the probate 
of wills, &c. 

It is held from time to time as occasions arise* 

Aldermen and justices of the peace, who by se- 
veral acts of assembly have individually, a special 
jurisdiction (the former in the city and the latter in 
the county) in certain cases of debt or demand not 
exceeding one hundred dollars, and of damages for 
trespass not exceeding twenty dollars, subject as to 
the former, to an appeal to the Court of Common 
Pleas in all cases where the sum is above twenty 
dollars, and in some cases where it is less, and as to 
both, to a revision of their proceedings by certiorari. 

Crimi7ial Courts^ 

1. Courts of Oyer and Terminer, and general 
jail delivery. The judges of the Supreme court, are 
by the constitution, justices of Oyer and Terminer 
in the several counties. And the judges of the com- 
mon Pleas (or any two of them, the president being- 
one) in their respective counties, for the trial of 
capital and other offenders. The courts are usually 
held alternately by the judges of the supreme court, 
and of the common pleas, about once in each year ; 
and though their jurisdiction is general, they com- 
monly take cognizance of such offences only, as are 
either not cognizable by the quarter sessions, or 
being so, are attended in their perpetration, with 



102 GRIMINAL COURTS. 

circumstances of extraordinary atrocity, requiring 
exemplary punishment. 

2. Court of Quarter Sessions, composed of the 
judges of the Court of Common Pleas, or any two 
of them ; possesses a jurisdiction over offences com- 
mitted within the county of Philadelphia, not perhaps 
definable by any general terms as to the subject of 
it, but exercised only in cases of misdemeanor, and 
of small felonies, which before the amelioration of 
our penal code were not capitally punishable. 

Petitions for new roads and streets are presented 
to this court, which appoints viewers to determine on 
the propriety of the measure. For streets in the city, 
twelve freeholders are appointed, who being sworn 
or affirmed, with the commissioners of the county, 
view the place proposed. If they or ten of them 
view the ground, and seven of the viewers agree 
that there is occasion for a street, they may proceed 
to lay out the same, and make report with a plot, to 
the next court, and if approved of, shall be recorded- 
No street is to exceed fifty feet in breadth. Dama- 
ges are to be estimated by the viewers, and the 
sum awarded is to be paid by the county treasurer: 
when paid, the mayor is to have the street opened 
imder the direction of the ^ourt. 

It is held four times in each year. 

3 The Mayor's Court, composed of the mayor, 
recorder and aldermen, or any four of them, (the 
mayor or recorder being one) possesses and ex- 
ercises the same jurisdiction over offences com^ 
mitted within the city, as the quarter sessions in the 
county. 

It is usually held four times in a year, at intervals 
of about three months. 

4. The aldermen and justices of the peace, the 
former in the city, and the latter in the county, pos- 
sess individually, summary jurisdiction of certain 
petty offences created by acts of assembly, subject 
in some cases to an appeal* 



BANKS. 103 

1. Bank of North America, 

This is the oldest bank in the United States, and 
its establishment is connected with circumstances 
in the political history of the country, which every 
American ought to be acquainted with, and never 
forget. 

Every one knows, that to carry on the war for in- 
dependence, Congress were obliged to supply the 
want of a solid circulating medium, by the emission 
of paper money, and no funds having been provided 
for its redemption, it met with a natural fate, a gra- 
dual depreciation. The enthusiasm of liberty that fired 
the minds of many in that day, to a degree not sur- 
passed by any nation ; supported the credit of this 
substitute for the precious metals for a time, but at 
length it became of so little value, as to be inade- 
quate to the wants of our citizens, and in IT'S!, 
public credit was so low, that supplies could not be 
obtained to defray the necessary expenses of the 
government. The idea of a bank had been sometime 
before suggested by an American^ then in England^ 
and on the proposition of the minister of finance, 
R. Morris, a plan was adopted by a resolution of con- 
gress on the 26th of May, 1781. It was to be com- 
posed of a thousand shares, at four hundred dollars 
each ; but either from want of confidence in the pro- 
ject among the monied men, or from ignorance of 
the nature of the institution, only two hundred shares 
were subscribed for, and it was some time after the 
bank was fairly in operation, that the sum received up- 
on all subscriptions, amounted to seventy thousand 
dollars. In November 178i^, the President and Direct- 
ors were elected ; and in January 17829 the bank was 
opened for business. At this time there remained in 
the treasury, about 300,000 dollars, being part of 

* Dr. Ruston. 



104 BANKS, ' 

the money loaned by France to the United States, 
A considerable sum was due for past transactions^ 
and congress had not required the States to pay any 
thing for the service ol the coming year,43efore the 
first of April. The treasury was ^1,600,000 in arrears. 
Under these circumstances, about ^250,000 of the 
public money were invested by Mr. Morris, in the 
stock of the bank. It was principally upon this fund, 
that the operations of the institution were commen- 
ced ; and before the end of March, a loan from it of 
300,000 dollars was obtained, being the total amount 
of their specie or capital. This loan was shortly af- 
ter increased to 400,000, for such was the state of 
the revenue, that no more than 30,000 dollars had 
been paid into the public chest by the last of June. 
Considerable facilities were also obtained by dis- 
counting notes of individuals, and thereby anticipa- 
ting the receipt of public money, and the army con=- 
tractors for rations, were also aided with discounts 
upon public credit. The whole amount directly and 
indirectly obtained, exceeded one million of dollars i 
and Mr. Morris asserts that without this establish^ 
ment, the business of the department of finance, 
could not have been performed.* A charter had 
been obtained from congress in the month of Decem- 
ber 1781, and in April 1782, an additional act of in- 
corporation v/as passed by the legislature of Pennsyl- 
vania. This however after a hard struggle was repeal- 
ed in 1785, owing to the prejudices of many country 
members against the institution. Mr. Morris, who 
knew the incalculable benefit derived to the country, 
from the pecuniary loans of the bank, spoke feelingly 
and ably in its defence. A new charter was granted 
in 1787, and in the year 1799, it was continued for 
fourteen years after the 17th of March 1801. 

* Statement of the accounts of the United States of North 
America, from 1781 to 1784. Philadelphia 1784 by R. Morris. 



BANKS. 105 

The capital is $800,000. Dividends in January 
and July ; and since 1804, have been at the rate of 
nine per cent. There are twelve directors. Banking 
house, No. 99, Chesnut street. Discount days, 
Mondays and Thursdays. Shut on Christmas, first - 
of January, fourth of July, and Good-friday. 

President, John Morton. Cashier, Henry Drinker, 
jun. 

2. Bank of Pennsylvania^ 

Was incorporated March 30th, 1793, until 1813. 
The original capital consisted of two millions of 
dollars, divided into five thousand shares of 400 dol- 
lars each: permission was granted to increase them 
to 7500. The state was permitted to subscribe for 
2500 shares. In February 1810, the charter was 
extended for the term of twenty one years from the 
fourth of March 1810, upon condition, that the 
governor shall be allowed to subscribe at par on be- 
half of the Commonwealth for one thousand two 
hundred and fifty shares of the reserved shares of 
the Bank,^ and also for the same number all at par 
at any time after the expiration of ten years from 
the fourth of March 1813. The stock of the bank is 
not to be transferrable to any person except citizens 
of the United States. 

The State of Pennsylvania has now ^1, 509,000 ves- 
ted in this bank. Branches have been established at 
Lancaster, Pittsburg and Easton. 

There are twenty-five directors including the 
president ; Three are annually appointed by each 



* By this purchase the state gained g 110,000, and may gain an 
equal sum when they use the privilege of the second invest- 
ment. 



106 BANKS 

house of the legislature ; the rest by the stockholders, 
on the first Monday in February. 

President, Joseph Parker Norris. Cashier, Jona- 
than Smith. 

Discount days, Wednesday and Saturday. 

Dividends, January and July. These have never 
been under eight per cent. 

Bank, in Second street, near Walnut. Shut, Christ- 
mas and fourth of July. 

3, Bank of Philadelphia^ 

Was formed in 1803, with a capital of one mil- 
lion of dollars ; and was incorporated in 1804, upon 
the following conditions. 1. Paying 135,000 dollars 
in cash. 2. Permitting the governor on the part of 
the state, to subscribe for three thousand shares, 
and to receive in payment ^300,000 of six per cent 
stock of the United States at par.^ 3. To loan to 
the State when required, 100,000 dollars at five per 
cent for ten years. 4. The privilege of subscribing 200, 
000 dollars at the end of four years, and, at the end of 
eight years to subscribe other ^200,000, on the part 
of the State,both sums to be at par.f 

The capital was increased six hundred thousand 
dollars by the act of incorporation. The capital is 
now 2,000,000 dollars. The original charter was to 
last ten years, but in 1806 it was extended to 1824. 



* It was then ten per cent, below par. 
J As the practice of paying- for charters to banking companies 
maiks an aera in legislation, it is proper to mention, that the en- 
ormous bonus paid by the bank of Philadelphia, and the other 
privileges granted to the state, became necessary, in conse- 
quence of the violent opposition to the institution by the bank of 
Pennsylvania, and the offer on the part of that bank of ^200,000 
to the state, provided no new bank should be incorporated^. 



BANKS. lor 

The state now holds ^523,000 of stock in this bank. 
Sixteen directors are appointed by the stockholders, 
on the second Monday oi February, and three bv 
each house of the legislature at every session. Stock- 
holders must reside in the United States. Branches 
of this bank have been established at Washington, 
Wilkesbarre, Columbia, and Harrisburg. Shares 
Si 00. 

Discount days, Monday, Wednesday, and Fri- 
day. 

Dividends, March and September. These have 
been uniformly eight per cent. 

President, George Clymer. Cashier, Quintin 
Campbell. 

Bank, corner of Fourth and Chesnut streets. 

4. Farmers and Mechanics Bank^ 

Was formed in the year 1807, and incorporated in 
1 809, until 1 824. The capital was originally §750,000. 
It is now nine hundred thousand, and by the charter 
may be increased to 1,250,000. Seventy-five thou- 
sand dollars in stock, were paid for the charter. The 
debts of the corporation must not exceed double the 
amount of the capital; one tenth part of the capital 
for a year, shall be loaned to the farmers of this state 
if applied for, on sufficient security by bond, mort- 
gage, or note. There are thirteen directors, a ma- 
jority of whom shall be farmers, mechanics or ma- 
nufacturers. No bill for less than five dollars may 
be issued by this or any other bank in Philadelphia. 
Shares fifty dollars. 

Dividends, January and July. These have been, 
the first year, eight per cent ; and in 1810, were nine 
per cent. 

Discount days, Tuesday and Friday. 

President, Joseph Tagert. Cashier, Joseph Clay. 



108 INSURANCE OFFICES. 

Bank, Chesnut street near Third street. Shut on 
Christmas, first of January, Good Friday, and fourth 
of July. 

Since the abolition of the national bank, the de- 
posits of the United States are made in this bank, 
and in the bank of Pennsylvania. The State owns 
stock to the amount of 85,000 dollars in this bank. 

Discounts at all the banks are made for sixty days 
on endorsed notes, at an interest of one half per cent 
for thirty days. Notes are presented the day before 
discount days. If some plan were adopted to accom- 
modate those who possess good notes, at three, four, 
or six months ; or those who have property that cannot 
be immediately converted into cash, trade would 
not only be greatly benefitted, some of the evils of 
banking lessened, but above all, the practice of usury, 
which prevails to a disgraceful degree in most of 
oiir commercial towns, would be much diminished. 

Insurance Offices, 

An Insurance office for shipping was opened in 
Philadelphia, so early as 1720, by John Copson. 
Joseph Sanders aiterv/ards kept an office for the 
same purpose. In 1762 William Bradford printer, 
opened a marine insurance office in company with 
an able accountant, John Kydd, and continued it until 
about the revolution. Others succeeded in the same 
line during the war, and after the peace until the 
year 1792, when a company that had associated upon 
a tontine principle, agreed to employ their capital in 
insuring property. They obtained a charter under 
the name of the " Insurance Company of North 
America," in 1794. 

Their capital is ^600,000. Shares ^10. 

The operations of this company were confined for 
some time to marine insurances j but for several 



INSURANCE OFFICES o 109 

years past they also insure houses from loss by fire ; 
and ships, while building. 

There are fifteen directors. 

President, John Inskeep. Office, 40 Walnut street. 

Insurance Company of Pennsylvania, 

The Insurance Company of Pennsylvania, was in- 
corporated in 1794, to 1815, with a capital of 500,000 
dollars, in shares of 400 dollars. There are thirteen 
directors : stockholders must be citizens of the Uni- 
ted States to be eligible as a director. To vote by 
proxy, stockholders must be actually residents 
within the United States ; and no stockholders may 
have more than twenty-four votes. Once in two 
years, the directors shall lay before the stockholders, 
at a general meeting, an exact statement of the af- 
fairs of the company. The real estate is confined to 
such buildings as shall be requisite for the accom- 
modation of the company, in relation to its business, 
and such as shall have been mortgaged to it by way 
of security, or purchased upon judgments obtained 
for such debts. 

President, James S. Cox. Office, corner of Dock 
and Walnut streets. 

Dividends, February and August, 

Union Insurance Company* 

Incorporated 1804, until 1815. Thirteen directors^ 
chosen on the second Monday in February. 

Capital, ^500,000. Shares,' ^100. 

The clear yearly income of the real estate, is not 
to exceed El 0,000. None but resident citizens of 
Pennsylvania shall vote as proxies. No stockholder 
shall have more than twenty votes : and, to be a di^ 



K 



110 INSURANCE OFFICES. 

rector, must hold ten shares. S50,000 may be loan- 
ed to the state, or its funds may be invested in real 
estate within the city or county of Philadelphia. 

Office, 45 Walnut street. 

President, George Latimer. Dividend, February 
and August. 

Phcejiix Insurance Compant/^ 

Was incorporated in 1804, until 1815. 

Capital, ^600,000. Shares, Si 00 each. 

There are nine Directors. One half of the capital 
consists of shares in the stock of the Insurance 
Company of North America. Capital invested in 
bonds, must be secured by mortgages or sufficient 
real estates within the city and county of Philadel- 
phia : a part of the capital not exceeding ^60,000, 
may, with the approbation of a majority of the stock- 
holders convened for that purpose, be loaned to the 
state of Pennsylvania. They may also sell all or any 
part of the stock of the said incorporated insurance 
company, which may be transferred as aforesaid, 
and invest the proceeds thereof in the manner here- 
in directed. The real estate must not exceed 
^10,000 clear annual income. Stated meetings of the 
directors are to be held once in eveiy fortnight. 
Stockholders are not allowed more than fifteen votes 
each. No stockholder indebted to the company shall 
make transfers, or receive dividends, till the debt is 
paid or secured. A general meeting of stockholders 
is to be held on the second Monday of December. 

Proxies must be held by a citizen of Pennsylvania. 

Ofnce, 96 south Second street. 

President, David Lewis, Dividend, June and De-= 
cember. 



INSURANCE OFFICES. Ill 

JDelaxvare Insurance Company^ 

Was incorporated March 1804, to 1815, with a 
capital of ^500,000 divided into shares of glOO 
each, payable, one fifth in bank stock, and four fifths 
in specie. ^50,000 may be loaned to the state. 
Stockholders not entitled to more than fifteen votes. 
Directors must be resident citizens and holders of 
ten shares. There are fifteen directors, chosen the 
second Monday in December. 

Office, 42 Walnut street. 

President, Thomas Fitzimons. Dividend, June 
and December. 

Philadelphia Insurance Company^ 

Was incorporated in March 1804, to 1815, with a 
capital of ^400,000. Shares, IglOO each. Thirteen 
directors, each of whom must hold ten shares. No 
stockholder indebted to the company shall receive 
or transfer a dividend, till the debt be paid or secured. 
No corporation except the company, shall directly 
or indirectly hold any share in the capital stock. 
Election on the first Monday in January. Income of 
real estate not to exceed ^10,000. Stockholders not 
entitled to more than twenty votes. 

Office S. W. corner of Walnut and Second streets. 

President, Samuel W. Fisher. Dividend, June and 
December. 

United States Insurance Company, 

Capital, ^400,000. Shares, ^50. 

Incorporated, March 1810, until January 1827. 
The yearly income of the real estate of the compa- 
ny, must not exceed four thousand dollars. Mem- 
bers must be citizens, and to be a director must hold 



.112 INSURANCE OFFICES. ~^ ^-' 

live shares. No stockholder shall have more than 
twenty-five votes. There are thirteen directors. 

Office, 49 Walnut street. 

President, Israel Pleasants. 

Dividends, June and December. 

Marine Insurance Company. 

Incorporated 1809, until 1827. Capital 1^300,000: 
divided into 3000 shares, of ^100 each. 

Managed by thirteen directors. 

The yearly income is not to exceed 6000 dollars. 
Capital may be loaned to the state in any sum not 
exceeding ^50,000 ; or on real estate, within the 
state. Stockholders and directors must be citizens 
of the state, and no one entitled to more than fifty 
votes. A general meeting to take place of the stock- 
holders, on the second Monday in January of every 
year ; they may make rules for governing the affairs 
of the company. Directors must own ten shares. 

Dividends, first Mondays of January and July. 

President, John Leamy. Office, 47 Walnut street. 

Lancaster and Susquehannah Insurance Company, 

A company, formed originally at Lancaster, with 
a capital of ^100,000 and with liberty to increase 
it to three hundred thousand dollars, was incorpora- 
ted in 1808, to 1816, upon the same general principles 
as the preceeding, and with like powers ; and have 
established an office or branch in Philadelphia. 

The income of real estate cannot exceed ^3,000. 
All disputes with this company must be submitted 
to arbitration, if required by the claimants for losses. 

Office, N. W. corner of Second and Walnut streets* 

Agents, Joseph Smith, J. Carson. 



INSURANCE OFFICES. 113 

The general principles adopted for the regulation 
of the different companies, are very nearly the same. 
The funds not required to pay demands against the 
company, shall be vested in the public debt of the 
United States, or in the stock of incorporated com- 
panies of the state, or United States, or on security 
of real estate within the city and county of Phila- 
delphia. The directors divide themselves into weekly 
committees, who assist the presidents in transacting 
the business of the companies. In case the capital shall 
be lessened by losses, no dividend is to be made un- 
til a sum equal to the loss, be added to the capital,* 
under penalty of holding the directors account^ 
able. They may make all kind oi marine insuran- 
ces, insurance on the inland transportation of goods, 
against fire, and on lives ; and lend money upon bot- 
tomry and respondentia. At the annual meetings of 
the companies, a statement of their a^airs is to be 
laid before the stockholders. At these meetings ge- 
neral rules for the government of the affairs of the 
company may be made. Stock must be held three 
months at least, before an election, to entitle a per- 
son to a vote. 

Fire Insurance Offices, 

The oldest Insurance Office against fire, solely, is 
" the Philadelphia Contributionship," having been for- 
med in the year 1752, and mcorporated in 1754. Its 
terms were, as declared, "most equal," and apart from 
all views of private or separate gain. There are twelve 
directors and a tre,asurer annually chosen ; the latter 
gives security. The rules for the regulation of the 
conduct of the directors in the management oT their 

* Insurance Company of North Amencaand Pennsylvania ex= 
cepted. 

K 2 



114 INStJRANCE OFFICES. 

trust, and the principles of the association were con= 
tained in a " deed of settlement," which was altered 
in 1810, and generally are as follows. 

All persons insuring in, and with the society, shall 
be deemed members of the same during the continu- 
ance of their interest in their respective policies, 
which are to continue for an unlimited period. The 
directors are empowered to lay out money in stock 
of any incorporated company of the state or city, or 
to lend it on mortgage ; but restrained from issuing 
any notes in the nature of bank notes; to become en- 
dorsers in their corporate capacity, or from making 
discounts or receiving deposits. Caleb Carmalt is the 
clerk of this company, and the office is kept at his 
house, 99 High street. 

Mutual Fire Assurance Company. 

Office, Pine street wharf. J. B. Palmer, secretary. 

This association was formed In 1784, in conse- 
quence of the old contributionship company refusing 
to insure houses before which trees grew. 

All persons insuring in this society are deemed 
members thereof, so long as they remain insured. 

By virtue of a deed of settlement, which was finally 
altered and amended in 1801, the direction of the 
affairs of the Company is intrusted to thirteen direc- 
tors, who act without pay. The policies issued by the 
trustees, continue in force so long as the premium 
*hall remain with the society ; and any member may 
within six'-months after the expiration of every seven 
years, reclaim and receive his deposit money, without 
any deduction except the fees of office, unless the 
stock of the company has been lessened by losses | 
in which case a just proportion of all such losses as 
the interest money was insufficient to satisfy, shall 
be deducted. In all cases of sale where the policy is 



INSURANCE OFFICES. 115 

not transferred, the deposit money may be withdrawn, 
if applied for within two months after such sale, but 
not otherwise ; deducting five per centum, and sub- 
ject to deduction in case of losses. If the loss shall 
exceed the company's whole stock, the several suf- 
ferers insured in this office, are to receive a just pro- 
portionable dividend of the whole stock, according to 
the sums by them insured. 

Besides the deposit or premium of insurance, the 
insured pay for the policy, and the services incident 
thereto, at the rate of thirty cents for every hundred 
dollars insured, and fifty cents for every entry of 
transfer. Transfers must be entered on the books, 
within four weeks after assignments have been made. 

In case of loss by fire, the trustees are to view 
and inquire into the same. If it be partial, the trus- 
tees may repair it, or pay the estimated damage, 
provided such estimate is within the sum insured on 
that part of the building : but if it exceed, the sum 
insured only shall be paid. In case of total loss, they 
either rebuild the house, or pay the sum insured 
thereon, in three months after the loss. The policy 
then becomes void. Additional premiums are required 
for insurance upon all houses having trees planted 
before them, or in the yards near the house. Trees 
planted after insurance has been effected, must be re- 
ported to the office. Damages from gunpowder being 
stored in the house, or from breaming ships, make an 
insurance void. 

American Fire Insurance Company^ 

Was Incorporated in 1811, by the legislature of 
Pennsylvania. The business of the company is con- 
fined to objects on land, or vessels in port with their 
cargoes on board. The capital is 500,000 dollars. 



116 MARKETS. 

divided into five thousand shares. The clear yearly- 
income of the corporation upon the real estate 
which they are authorized to hold, shall not exceed 
10,000 dollars. There are nine directors. Stock- 
holders are required to be citizens. One per cent 
annually on the amount of the capital stock, is to 
be paid into the treasury of the commonwealth, by 
the company, when more than nine per cent per an- 
num, on their capital is divided. 

Office, 101 Chesnut street. President, William 
Jones. Secretary, Edward Fox. 

Phcenix Company of London, 

The Phoenix company of London opened an oi3ice 
for insurance from fire, in Philadelphia, and having 
done much business, a law was passed in 1810, pro- 
hibiting any person or persons, not citizens of the 
United States, from insuring property in any case 
within the state, against loss by fire, sea, or upon land 
transportation of goods. A penalty of ,^5,000 is 
forfeited by any person acting as agent for such for- 
eign insurers, 

3Iarkets^— ^Provisions, 

In the early settlement of the city, the Market 
was chiefly confined to the hill in Front street, cor- 
ner of High street ; where a house or shed was 
erected, having a bell, which was rung when any one 
came from the country with produce for sale. After- 
wards, a house for the exclusive sale of fish was 
built by subscription, on an arch over the creek 
which emptied into the Delaware, a short distance 
above Spruce street: here also a bell was fixed, and 
rung when fish was brought for sale. The fish Mar- 
ket is now confined to Market or High street hilh 



MARKETS. lir 

The first Market house built in High street, was 
a range of wooden stalls from Front to Second street. 
In the year 172Q, the first part of the market in 
High street west of the old court house was built ; 
the money for which was advanced by the Mayor, 
In proportion as the population of town and coun- 
try increased, the market house was extended un- 
til at present it reaches from Front to Sixth street j 
a distance of five squares. The last addition from 
Fourth to Sixth streets, was made in 1810. The 
increased projection of the eaves over the pillars in 
this last part, is a great improvement : as it increases 
accommedation and protection to the country people, 
and admits of a more advantageous display of their 
various productions. 

In the new parts, the upright posts and cross 
pieces having hooks to suspend the provisions on, are 
required to be regularly taken down after market 
hours, and packed away under the stalls: a very pro- 
per regulation and strictly enforced. 

By the law authorizing the continuation of the 
market, it is provided that the western half of the 
stalls is to be let to the people of the country, and 
to no others : and the other half to butchers; and that 
one half of the stalls that may be erected elsewhere, 
shall also be let to such persons from the country, 
as send their produce to market. The rent of each 
stall is fixed at twenty dollars. 

The market house in south Second street, was built 
for the accommodation of the citizens in the southern 
part of the city, and has been enlarged from time to 
time until it now extends from Pine to Cedar street, 
a distance of about 440 feet. At each end a room 
is erected, for the meetings of the commissioners, 
fire companies, and of the citizens. Market houses 
are also built in Callowhill street, and in north Se- 
cond street above Coats's street. The pillars of all 



118 MARKETS. 

the markets are of brick, and openings are left at 
proper distances to admit a passage between them. 
The footpaths are paved with the same material. 
Their breadth in the clear is about thirteen feet. 

As mentioned already, the hill on Market street 
is allotted for the sale of fish. This traffic, except in 
the case of those who bring fish preserved in ice, 
in waggons from the sea, is carried on chiefly by woe- 
men, many of whose husbands are employed in catch- 
ing the fish : no shelter is provided for this useful 
class of the community, who of course are exposed 
to the elements, and often suffer much personally, 
and sustain loss from the rapid putrefaction of their 
fish, when exposed to the sun. Moveable sheds simi- ^ 
lar to those erected for the sellers of vegetables 
west of Second street, and the south side of Market 
street, would be sufficiently convenient, until a more 
permanent covering could be erected. It is much to 
be wished, that this measure may demand the prompt 
attention of our city councils. 

The days appointed by law for holding markets 
in High street, are Wednesday and Saturday; and 
Tuesday and Friday, for the Market in south Se- 
cond street. 

From the first of April to the first of September, 
the market continues from day light until two o'clock; 
from September to April, it ends at three o'clock. 
Provisions are however sold every day, particularly 
in the Autumn, Winter, and in the early Spring 
months, during which time the market is seldom 
empty. Milk is permitted to be sold on Sunday mor- 
ning till nine o'clock, but whey is absurdly prohibited, 
although useful as a medicine. 

To prevent danger from the passage of carts, hor- 
ses, &c. during market hours, chains are fixed across 
the streets and allies to the north and south, east 
and west of the markets in High street, a little af-= 



MARKETS. 119 

ter sunrise. During the Summer they remain until 
nine, and in Winter until ten o'clock. All persons are 
obliged to remove their carts without the limits of 
the chains, under a penalty. Different parts of the 
market are appropriated for venders of butter, of 
salt fish, of Jersey produce, of other country pro- 
duce, of American earthen ware, cooper's ware, truit 
and garden seeds, of butcher's meat, and of all sorts of 
herbs, roots and meal. The venders of the three latter 
articles, stand under the eaves of the markets. Move- 
able stalls with sheds are also placed on the evening 
preceding market days, on the south side of Mar- 
ket street, for the accommodation of the sellers of ve- 
getables ; these are removed and stowed away after 
market hours, under the arches of the market bouse. 
No butcher is allowed to kill any beast, nor are live 
cattle to be sold or driven, nor is any cyder, beer or 
spirituous liquors to be sold by retail, nor any wheel- 
barrow brought within the market house* or shambles 
during market hours. The measures and weights 
used in the market, are to be duly regulated and 
stamped by the proper officer. Steel yards are very 
properly prohibited,^ by reason of the great decep- 
tion which may be practised with them. For disobe- 
dience of this regulation, and for using false balan- 
ces, the penalty is five dollars. Hucksters or those 
who monopolize poultry, nuts, fruits, and particu- 
lar vegetables, by an early attendance at market, are 
prohibited from purchasing with an intent to sell, 
provision or fruit of any kind within the limits of 
the market, before ten o'clock in the morning of any 
market day, and from exposing them to sale on any 
day. The penalty for either purchasing or selling, is 
three dollars for every offence. This excellent regu- 



It is to be regretted that they are not banished the state. 



120 MARKETS. 

lation is evaded in part by the sale of provisions 
out of cellars of houses opposite to the market ; but 
the magnitude of the evil is greatly diminished, from 
the impossibility of finding cellars to rent equal in 
number to the demand. 

No groujs,=^ partridge,! or pheasant,:}^ are permitted 
to be sold between the first day of March and the first 
of September; nor any woodcock,§ between the first of 
March and first of July, under penalty of forfeiting 
such game. 

The variety offish brought to the market of Phi- 
ladelphia, is considerable. Early in the spring, large 
sunfish are caught in the bay, and are succeeded by 
herrings, shad, roach, four kinds of catfish, four kinds 
of perch, rock, lamprey eel, common eel, pike, suck- 
er, sturgeon, gar fish. These are river fish, and ap- 
pear in the order mentioned. From the sea come, cod, 
seabass, bltiik-fish, sheeps-head, spanish»mackarel, 
haddock, pollock, mullet, holibut, flounder, sole, 
plaice, skait, porgey, tomcod, and others. 

Shell-fish — Oysters, (several kinds,) clams, lobster, 
crab. The two first are taken in Delaware bay. 

Amphibious — Snapping-turtle, terrapin: both ex- 
cellent. 

In Summer, all the sea fish, except cod, are brought 
by land, in ice, as are also crabs and lobsters, from the 
coast of Monmouth county. New Jersey, a distance 
of eighty miles. Oysters abound all the year, and 
are sold by the hundred. 

Cod fish first made their appearance on the coast 
off the Delaware, about the year 1790, and have gra- 
dually progressed southward. The shad caught in 
the river Schuylkill, are generally esteemed superi- 
or in flavour, and more delicate than those caught in 
the Delaware ; owing probably, to their deriving 

* Tetrao Cupido Lin. fTetrao Virginianus Lin. i: Tetrao 
Umbelius or T : Timpanistes of Eartram« § Scolopax — ? 



MARKETS, 121 

nourishment from the gravelly bottom of the for- 
mer river : and hence they bear a higher price. The 
situation of the fishing place in the Delaware, like- 
wise influences the size and flavour of shad ; it is 
notorious, that those caught off Petty's island^ on 
the Jersey shore, above the city, where the water is 
deep; are much larger and fatter, than those caugiit^ 
in more shallow water, whether the bottom be mud, 
sand, or gravel. 

By a law passed in March, 1810, at the request of 
the legislature of New Jersey, the time for catching- 
shad in the Delav/are, within the state limits, between 
the foot of the falls at Trenton, and opposite the 
mouth of the river Lehigh, and the station point, or 
north west corner of this state, was extended until 
the 20th of June in every year. . 

The quantity of provisions, animal and vegetable, 
brought to market during the year, is immense, and 
much beyond the wants of the inhabitants. In sum- 
mer, great losses are sometimes sustained, especially 
in the various articles of animal food, which from the 
heat of the weather, soon spoil. ^ The particular 
number of beasts annually killed in the city, or 
sold in the markets, cannot be ascertained, but it 
may be safely asserted, that in no city in the world, 
is more animal food consumed, in proportion to its 
size, than in Philadelphia. It constitutes the substan- 
tial part of the dinner of every adult in the city, and 
most labourers and mechanics eat a portion of it at 
breakfast and supper. Much of the land, within five 
or six miles north and south of the city, is devoted to 
the purpose of kitchen gardens, and kept in the highest 
state of cultivation. Two crops are very commonly 
produced on the same ground in one season. The 



When spoiled, they are thrown into pit^ oat of the city. 



* T. 

T 



122 into VIS IONS. 

neighbouring state of New Jersey, contributes to the 
abundant supply of those species of fruit and vegeta- 
bles, to which its light soil is particularly adapted ; 
such as the grateful musk -melon, water-melon, sweet 
potatoe, cucumbers and peaches, immense quantities 
of which are brought in boats across the Delaware. 
Thti superiority of the butter of Philadelphia, and 
the great neatness with which it is prepared for mar- 
ket, are generally acknowledged. One fourth of a 
dollar may be said to be the average price of a pound 
of butter, throughout the year. 

The task of attending to the execution of the regu- 
lations of the markets, is attached to the duties of the 
clerks of the market, who are annually appointed by 
the mayor. The clerks are also authorized to prevent 
all unsound provisions from being offered for sale, 
and to examine into the accuracy of the weights of 
batter,lard and sausages, which are sold by the pound; 
and to try all scales, weights and measures used in the 
market ; decide all disputes which may arise in the 
Biarket, between buyer and seller ; to collect the rents 
of the stalls, and to cause all the pavements under 
the shambles to be swept, and the dirt removed into 
the open street. This dirt the city commissioners are 
required to have removed twice a week. Seizures are 
often made of butter, lard, and sausages, for being de- 
ficient in weight. Half of the quantity seized, is sent 
to the alms-house, and the other half is the perqui- 
site of the clerks. This regulation has had the most 
happy effect in dimmishing imposition, from false 
weight. 

The pay of the clerks of the market is two dollars 
fifty cents, in every hundred dollars of the rents of 
stalls, collected by them, and fifty dollars extra. They 
must give bond, with sureties, in the sum ol two thou- 
sand dollars, for the due performance of their duties. 



CONSTABLES ELECTIONS. 125 

Preservation of the Peace, 

There are fourteen constables, one for each ward ; 
and until the present year, one high constable, who 
is required to v/alk through the streets daily with 
his mace in his hand, and examine all vagrant and dis- 
orderly persons, and upon refusal to give him an ac- 
count of their residence and employment, or not 
giving a satisfactory account, to carry such persons 
before the mayor or an alderman to be dealt with 
according to law : to give notice of all nuisances 
or obstructions in the streets to the city commission- 
ers, or mayor ; and of offences committed against 
the laws in force, and of the names of the offenders 
and witnesses, and generally, to superintend the 
execution of, and cause obedience to the ordinances 
ir\ force, and to do all such things as the councils, 
mayor, cr recorder shall direct, tOLiching the orde.r^ 
regulation and policy of the city. By a recent ordi- 
nance, an additional high constable is to be appoint- 
ed by the Mayor. The salary of each is 700 dollars. 

Constable'' s Elections, 

By a law passed the 30th January 1810, the elec- 
tors in each ward are to meet at such place as the con- 
stable for the time being shall appoint, on the third 
Friday in March, and elect by ballot, two persons, one 
of whom shall be appointed constable for the said ward 
for the ensuing year. The constable for the time is re- 
quired to give six days previous notice in two news- 
papers, of the time and place where such election 
is to be held. 

The voters present choose three persons as judges 
of the election, who are to be sworn or affirmed to 
do justice, and on the third day thereafter, to make 
a return of the two names highest in vote, to the 
mayor of the city, who appoints one of them. Con- 



124 WATCHING AND LIGHTING. 

stables are bound to give two freeholders as securi- 
ties, in the sum of 2000 dollars, for the faithful dis- 
charge of their duty. 

In case of vacancies, the mayor appoints a succes- 
sor until the next election. 

City Commissioners. 

Four citizens are appointed in the month of Jan- 
uary, annually, by the mayor, under the title of the 
city commissioners, who have a general superinten- 
dence of the city property, the assessing of the taxes 
laid by the corporation, appointing the collectors 
thereof, taking securities for the faithful performance 
of their dut)^, and settling their duplicates. They 
also appoint the watchmen, and oversee the business 
of lighting, paving, and cleansing the city: they let 
the fixed and moveable stalls, and stands, in the mar- 
kets : regulate, limit and direct the depth of wells 
and sinks : appoint stands for draymen and hackney 
coachmen, and regulate the erection of lime houses, 
and the placing of stone and scantling in the streets 
for building. Their pay is 750 dollars each, and are 
allowed a clerk. They sit in the old court-house. 

WatchiJig and Lighting, 

There are thirty-two watchmen who cry the hour, 
and six who visit the boxes of the others, to insiu'e 
a punctual performance of their duty ; the v/hole are 
under the direction of the captain of the watch, who 
attends at the old court house in Second street, every 
night, to receive the vagrants, rioters or thieves, who 
may be taken up by the watchmen; and to take care of 
the oil, wick, &c. of which he must render an account 
to the city commissioners, monthly, of the quantity 
received, expended and on hand. There are 1132 
lamps in the city, and new ones are annually erecting. 



FUEL— PUBLIC LANDINGS. 125 

as the city improvements extend. The pay of the 
watchmen is 14 dollars per month, besides 27 cents 
extra wages for each lamp under their care : they 
also have the gratuity of a great coat. They are 
subject to fines for neglect of duty. The cost of 
lighting and watching Philadelphia in 1809, amount- 
ed to 19,263 dollars 73 cents. 

Cleansing the Streets, 

To accomplish this, the city is divided into dis- 
tricts, and one commissioner attends to the cleanliness 
of a district. The street dirt is scraped by scavengers 
into small heaps, and men follow with carts, to take it 
away to the commons, where it is deposited in heaps, 
and disposed of occasionally by auction, for manure. 
In summer, the excellent New York regulation ought 
to be adopted, of taking away daily in a cart, ail 
offall matters of the kitchen, which are placed for 
this purpose, in a barrel or tub, before the door. 

Fuel — Wood Corders<-^Public Landings, 

The principal article of house fuel in Philadelphia, 
is hickory, oak or maple wood. Pine wood is used 
chiefly by brick burners and bakers. Coal is only 
partially used in dwelling houses, but would be in 
general demand for counting rooms, offices and cham= 
bers, owing to the danger from fire being thereby 
lessened, if it could be afforded at a rate as cheap 
as wood. The time is anxiously looked forward to, 
when the inexhaustible bodies of excellent coal with 
which our western counties, and Wayne county 
abound, will be brought down to Philadelphia, by 
means of that great chain of inland navigation, 
which has been so long in contemplation, and by 
the removal of the obstructions in the Lehigh. 

L 2 



126 REGULATION OF WOOD FOR FUEL. 

During the continuance of the navigation in the 
Delaware, fire wood is brought in shallops from 
both sides of the river, above and below the city ; 
but in winter, when from the obstruction by ice, the 
supply in that way is cut off, wood is brought by 
land. In alj cases, it is measured by sworn corders, 
at certain fixed rates. The stand for cord w^ood 
brought by land to the city, is the upper end of High 
street, between Eighth street and the center square. 

The measure of v\^ood is the cord, of eight feet 
in length, by four in height, and four in breadth. 

No wood is permitted to be sold as cord wood, 
the length of which shall not be at least three feet 
ten inches, including half the kerf: and when the 
average length of the wood shall fall short of four 
feet, including half the kerf, six inches must be add- 
ed to the standing length of the cord. 

Reasonable and fair allowance is to be made 
for the loss sustained by crooked wood : the straight 
wood is to be packed in the lower part of the pile, 
and the crooked wood on the upper part. Every 
cord of wood pays eight cents wharfage, and six cents 
for cordage; the former is to be paid by the seller, the 
latter by the purchaser. 

Wood landed upon private wharves, is to be in- 
spected and measured by the nearest corder, for 
which, eight cents are to be paid by the purchaser. 
Corders are to sell wood landed on the public land- 
ings, if so required by the owner of it, without ad- 
ditional fee. 

No person is permitted to buy wood in the city te 
sell again, from September to March inclusive, un- 
der a penalty of two dollars for every cord sold; 
sawyers are forbidden to buy wood for any person 
or use, other than their own. All craft lying at a public 
wharf, pay one dollar per day for every day they ex- 
ceed forty-eight hours, unless weather-bound. Ves* 



PUBLIC LANDINGS, ISf 

seis loaded with boards, plank, scantling, hay or sand^ 
are excepted. Each corder receives an annual salary 
of S600. Deputies receive three hundred dollars. 
All are removable at the discretion of the mayor, 
for neglect of duty. Carters are to have a sufficient 
number of hewn standards tor preventing the wood 
from falling off the cart, and marked with the initial 
letters of their christian and sirnames, on the out- 
er sides of the said standards, under the penalty of 
five shillings. Carters not delivering all the wood 
they undertake to hawl, shall forfeit two shillings for 
every stick so detained, to the owner or purchaser 
thereof. 

Other articles, besides wood, as stone, sand, shin- 
gles, boards, staves, rails, &c. pay wharfage. 

Previously to the year 1807, the '^public landings 
were rented to the highest bidder; but in that year 
a law was passed, authorising the mayor to appoint 
corders of wood, with salaries, who are to give bond 
with sureties ; and to take oath for the faithful per- 
formance of the duties enjoined upon them : they are 
to pay, weekly, the monies they receive for wharf- 
age or cording, into the hands of the city treasurer ; 
and to furnish a list of the articles landed, and by 
whom : and the treasurer is required, once in every 
month, to furnish the mayor with a statement of the 
amount of monies paid in by the several corders, to- 
gether with the original lists. 

In the year 1 807, the wharves produced ^7,820 95 
„ 1808, „ 10,203 114 

„ 1809, „ 10,767 62^ 

„ 1810, „ 10,840 474 

,, 1806, they rented for 4,884 

Adding the present salaries 3,900 

)B8,7845 



128 SALE OF BREAD„ 

leaves a balance so great, as to shew the propriety 
of the alteration of the law respecting the mode of 
collecting this branch of revenue. 

In 1 720, as appears by books of council, the pub- 
lic wharves on the Delaware, at the ends of Walnut 
and Chesnut streets, were rented at three pounds ; 
that of High street for six. His honour the mayor, 
took the two first, and aldermen Masters and Red- 
man, joined in the contract for the last. The rents 
were to be in half yearly payments. 

Cords. 

In 1808, were landed, . 66,391 

1809, .... 69,5 rO-J 

1810, .... 68,691-J 

Much of the wood, consumed in the city, is purcha- 
sed at the public wharves in Southwark and the 
Northern Liberties, and they being rented, no account 
is kept of the quantity there sold: nor is any account 
kept of that sold at the stand in High street, du- 
ring winter; nor of that landed on Schuylkill, for the 
supply of the western parts of the city: but the quanti- 
ty from those quarters, may be fairly rated at two 
thirds of that landed at the public city wharves, from 
which data, an estimate may be formed of the whole 
amount consumed in the city in one year. 

Sale of Bread. 

A law was passed in 1775, to regulate the assize 
of bread J and after the incorporation of Philadelphia, 
it was renewed for a short time. The consideration 
of the hardship, if not injustice of setting a price up- 
on the labour of one class of citizens only, and the 
great difficulty of establishing a principle which would 
secure one part of the community from imposition, 
without abridging the rights of another part, opera- 



SALE OF BREAD. 129 

ted with the legislature to leave the affair to the citi- 
zens themselves. 

In 1797 an act was passed, requiring that all loaf 
bread made for sale within this commonwealth, shall 
be sold by the pound avoirdupois, and that every ba- 
ker or other person, offering the same for sale, shall 
keep at his or her house, or at such other place at 
which they shall offer bread for sale, sufficient scales 
and weights, for weighing the same. The penalty for 
offending against this act is ten dollars ; and the clerks 
of the markets are required to discover and prose- 
cute the offenders. The act extends to Southwark 
and the Northern Liberties. The citizens, however, 
have been so long accustomed to take bread oi sucji 
weights as the bakers have chosen to maketheir loaves, 
that the regulation of selling by weight does not pro- 
duce the good intended. They cannot spend time in 
daily going round to the different bakers shops to 
compare the weights of their loaves with the prices; 
and it is clear that, unless they do so, they may be 
very frequently forced to take bread of a size unrea- 
sonably small. The price of bread ought always to 
bear a proportion to the price of flour ; while at the 
same time it is but just that the baker should be al- 
lowed a reasonable profit. In New York their pro- 
fit has been fixed at three dollars and sixty-six cents 
per barrel, of one hundred and ninety-six pounds.* 



* In fixing' the assize, the chamberlain is required to estimate 
a barrel of flour, to produce 4,032 oz. of bread, (as it has been 
found that such is the product,) and in order to ascertain the 
weight of a shilling loaf, (twelve cents and a half,) of the respec- 
tive qualities of flour, the number of ounces is divided by a num- 
ber equal to the number of shillings a barrel of fionr of such a 
quality, may be worth at the time: and ^3 66, (or 28*. New York 
currency,) added thereto, being the profit allowed the baker, the 
quotient will be the number of ounces a shilling loaf must weigh. 
Whenever the fractional parts are less than half an ounce, they 
are taken off the loaf; and when half an ounce or more, an ounce 
is added to it. 



^^^'-■'-- 



130 STORING OF GUN POWDER, 

Protection of Mechanics and Labourers, 

By a law passed by the legislature, in 1809, all 
dwellings and other houses to be erected in Phila- 
delphia, are subjected to the payment of debts con- 
tracted in building the same ; and where the house 
will not sell for sufficient to discharge all the demands, 
they are to be averaged and paid proportionably. But 
such debts are not to remain a lien longer than two 
years from the commencement of the building, unless 
an action be instituted for the recovery of the same, 
within six months after performing the work^ or fur- 
nishing the materials for the house. 

Storing of Gun Powder, 

The danger arising from the introduction of a 
great quantity of this dangerous article within the 
city, early demanded the attention of the legisla- 
ture, and accordingly a house for storing it was 
built near the northern boundaiy of the N. W. 
public square, at a time when it was sufficiently 
remote from the thickly setried parts of the city to 
prevent danger from an explosion. An increasing 
population rendered another structure in a few years 
necessary, and accordingly the house on the banks of 
the Schuylkill at the west end of Walnut street, was 
erected in 1791. From that place it was removed 
in the year 1802, in consequence of the extension of 
buildings, to the present situation, near the Schuylkill, 
in Passyunk township. 

All gunpowder imported from bej^ond sea, or 
brought by land, must be delivered to the magazine, 
nor come within two miles of the city ; nor must 
any be shipped at the wharves, nor more than thirty 
pounds kept in any store at a time. Gunpowder 
is subject to a very strict inspectioUj by a sworn 
inspector. Act, April the 8th, 1795. 



HEALTH LAW. 131 

Botlt7ig Oil of Turpentine and Varnish. 

Persons are not permitted to boil or distil oil of 
turpentine, or make varnish in the thickly settled 
parts of the city or liberties, unless carried on in 
an open place at least thirty feet distant from any 
building, vessel of commerce, or other property that 
might be injured thereby; or in a fire prooff building. 

Health Law, 

Previously to the year 1«^93, Philadelphia having 
been favoured for many years by a freedom from 
any mortal epidemic, slight precautions had been 
taken to guard against the introduction of disease 
from abroad, or the origination of it at home. Vessels 
having sick on board, or having had deaths during 
the passage, were required to anchor off the laza- 
retto, which had been built at an early date, on 
State Island, a little below the mouth of the river 
Schuylkill, until the "physician of the port" came 
down, and to him it was leit to determine as to the ex- 
pediency of permitting them to proceed to the city, or 
of detaining them for the purpose of purification. 
The sick, if any on board, were landed at the hospi- 
tal. At the first session of the legislature, after the 
awful year before mentioned, a law for the more 
effectual protection of the city from the introduction 
of pestilential and contagious diseases was passed, by 
which provision was made for the appointment of, 
1st, A physician to reside at the lazaretto. 2d, A 
consulting physician. 3d, A health officer. 4th, A 
board oi health, composed of citizens, from Phi- 
ladelphia, the Northern Liberties, and South- 
wark ; who were to make all rules and regulations 
for the establishment and conduct of the other offi- 
cers. 



132 HEALTH LAW. 

Although in the discussion which the question of 
origin, had undergone during the prevalence of the 
fever of 1793, and after it had ceased, enough had 
been said to shew the probability of the local origin 
of the disease, or at least to prove that the medical 
faculty were divided on the subject ; yet the law 
passed, was almost entirely predicated upon the 
supposition of the importation ol the fever of 1793, 
and of epidemics generally; and hence, while nume- 
rous provisions were made for preventing the intro- 
duction of malignant diseases from abroad, little or 
no attention v/as paid to guard against their origi- 
nating at home. This is not to be wondered at, for 
mankind in all ages have uniformly evinced an un- 
willingness to, admit the possibility of their country 
producing pestilence of any kind ; and hence have 
constantly ascribed their afflictions in this way, to 
foreign causes. In the dark ages of ignorance and 
superstition, evil spirits, angry deities, or particular 
planets were blamed ; in latter times importation was 
resorted to. The repeated occurrence of the same 
epidemic, naturally continued the discussion of the 
question of origin, and caused muchlightto be thrown 
on the subject generally, by the body of information 
collected, and the new principles developed; and on 
the whole, has tended greatly to promote diffusion 
of truth, and to benefit mankind. Among other 
good results that have followed, is the admission of 
the belief that " the sin might lie at our own door;" 
and hence, while no one questions the propriety of 
guarding against the introduction of diseases from 
certain causes by ships, the propriety of attention 
to the sources of their production at home was made 
manifest, and a commendable degree of cleanliness 
in the city, in which it was befor-e very deficient, has 
followed. 



HEALTH LAW. 133 

Since the passage of the first health law, various 
supplements have been added, and an alteration of 
the whole system has taken place; the present law was 
passed in 1806. By this, a board of health, consisting 
of five members, two of whom may be physicians, 
to be annually appointed by the governor, were con- 
stituted a body corporate. Three of the members 
must reside in the city, one in the Northern Liber- 
ties, and one in Southwark and Moyamensing. Out 
of their own body, the board shall choose a president, 
a secretary, and a treasurer; the board must meet 
once every day between the first of June and first of 
October, and also when specially convened by the 
president, or any two of the members : and is vested 
with full power to make general rules, orders, and 
regulations, for the government of the lazaretto, and 
the vessels, cargoes, and persons there detained, or 
under quarantine ; and of the health office and pub- 
lic hospitals; and to appoint such officers and servants, 
and to allow them such pay as may be found necessa- 
ry and proper. The governor is also required to ap- 
point a resident physician, and quarantine master, to 
reside at the lazaretto ; and a consulting physician, 
and health officer, to reside in Philadelphia. 

Foreign vessels, arriving between the first of June, 
and first of October, are required to anchor off the la- 
zaretto, and submit to the examination of the resident 
physician, touching the cargo, crew, passengers and 
baggage; to demand answers, on oath or affirmation, 
to all such questions as shall be put to any onboard, 
touching those points, and the physician is required 
to inform the persons interrogated, of the penalty for 
giving false answers. If it shall happen that the 
vessel comes from a healthy port, and has had no 
contagious disease on board while out, smallpox and 
measles excepted, and there is no cause to suspect 
an infected cargo, a certificate of health is to be 

M 



134s HEALTH LAW. 

given to the master, who may then proceed to the 
city, and must present his certificate at the health office 
within twenty-four hours alter his arrival. The 
board may however, cause further detention. 

If it appear that the vessel comes from a port at 
%vhich a malignant disease prevailed, she must be 
detained so long as the board of health shall deem 
necessary, but not exceeding twenty days.. The let- 
ter bag when purified, shall be transmitted to the 
health officer at Philadelphia, who shall deposit it in 
the post office. The vessel and cargo are to be 
cleansed, and the clothing and baggage aired and pu- 
rified at the expense of the owner. Wine, rum, salt, 
sugar, spices, molasses, mahogany, manufactured 
tobacco, dye woods, and preserved fruits, may be con- 
veyed to the city in lighters. But if disease has occur- 
red during the voyage, or while in quarantine, the ves- 
sel is to be detained such further time as the board 
may deem necessary, the cargo to be unladen and pu- 
rified ; and the crew, passengers, cargo and bag- 
gage, except the articles before mentioned, shall not 
be suffered to enter the city before the first of Octo- 
ber, without licence from the board. After purifi- 
cation, and if no disease appear on board, the ves- 
sel may load and proceed to sea, from the lazaretto. 
Heiusai to answer the questions of the physician, 
or deception, incurs the penalty of five hundred 
dollars, and imprisonment at hard labour, for not 
less than one year, and not exceeding five ; neglect 
to present a certificate subjects to a penalty of three 
hundred dollars. Neglecting to obey the orders of 
the lazaretto physician or board of health, subjects 
the offender to a fine not exceeding five hundred 
dollars. Vessels of war or coasters, having foreign 
goods on board, or bedding or clothing from any 
foreign port, must submit to the same forms as mer- 
chanimen^ 



HEALTH LAW. 135 

Persons arriving from foreign ports infected, at 
any port in the United States, shall not enter the 
city after June, until October, without permission, 
under a penalty of five hundred dollars. 

Foreign vessels touching at ports in the Uni- 
ted States shall be liable to all the rules of vessels 
directly from foreign ports. Coasters and ships of 
war, arriving between the first day of June, and the 
first of October, having on board foreign goods, or 
passengers, bedding or clothing, from any foreign 
port, shall be examined ; and if it appear that the said 
goods have been landed in the United States more 
than thirty days, and free from damage, the vessel and 
cargo uninfected, and passengers health}^, the ship 
is to be allowed to pass in the usual way; if other- 
wise, the same process is to be adopted as in other 
cases, under a penalty of five hundred dollars. 

Vessels from places infected with the plague, or 
that have spoken others infected therewith, are not 
to proceed to the city : the cargo, &c. on board are 
to be cleansed, and no part permitted to enter the 
city without permission. The vessel, after being 
cleansed, may load and proceed to sea. 

Persons or goods arriving at any port in the Uni- 
ted States, from any port at which a malignant dis- 
ease prevailed, or in any vessel in vfhich such dis- 
ease existed, while they were on board, are pro- 
hibited from entering the city or county, between 
the first of June and the first day of October, with- 
out permission of the board, under a penalty of five 
hundred dollars, and forfeiture of goods. 

The board may prohibit communication vnth in- 
fected ports in the United States; and order vessels, 
from those ports, to stop at the lazaretto; they may 
convey persons from infected places to a place of 
purification ; may interrogate suspected persons; 
may remand vessels, on just cause, to the lazaret- 



156 HEALTH LAW. 

to; take order to prevent the spreading of conta- 
gion in the city and liberties; prevent communication 
with infected houses; and cause all offensive or putrid 
substances, and all nuisances, to be removed from 
any place in the city, or vicinity. Opposition or 
violence to any of the members of the board, is 
punishable by fine, imprisonment and hard labour. 

Persons going on board, or along side of any vessel, 
or entering the lazaretto, must perform such quaran- 
tine as the board may direct. Fugitives from the 
lazaretto may be apprehended and sent back : 
boarding house keepers must leport persons who 
are taken sick in their houses. Persons afflicted 
with malignant diseases, who cannot be attended at 
home, may be removed to the city hospital on Schuvl- 
kill. 

The lazaretto physician visits vessels, orders their 
purification, and the sick to be removed on shore, 
and attends them there, and executes the orders of 
the board, respecting vessels, cargoes and persons 
under quarantine. 

The quarantine master directs the mooring ox 
vessels near the lazaretto; superintends the purifica- 
tion of the vessels and cargoes ; prevents intercourse 
between vessels and the shore, and preserves order, 
and enforces obedience to the provision of the health 
law, and the regulations of the board. 

The port physician examines suspected vessels or 
persons that have arrived, at all times, and visits all 
foreign vessels arriving between October and June. 

The health officer attends at his office every day to 
receive certificates of health; enforces the regulations 
of the board, and collects and recovers ail monies 
or fines directed to be paid by this act. 

The lazaretto physician receives three dollars for 
every vessel visited ; the port physician, quarantine 
master, and health officer, one dollar each. 



PROVISION AGAINST FIRE. 137 

For the reception of persons ill with any pestilen- 
tial or contagious disease, in the city, (small-pox or 
measles excepted,) a commodious brick hospital has 
been erected on the north side of Sassafras street, 
and east side of the river Schuylkill. The expense of 
support at this hospital, is to be defrayed by the pa- 
tient himself. The description of the building will 
be given ^\hen we come to speak of the public build- 
ings. 

Provisioji agamst Fire, 

This, till 1803, consisted of voluntary associations 
of the citizens, under the title of " Fire Companies," 
and have subsisted since the year 1732; at Avhich 
time, the first association took place. Since that time, 
numerous others have successively been formed; and 
at the present time, the number amounts to upwards 
of forty. The general principles of these associations 
are the same. They provide baskets, buckets, and 
bags, at their individual expense ; and most of them 
have an engine, purchased out of the joint funds of 
the company. They meet monthly, and a member is 
appointed to visit the houses of the members, to see 
that the buckets, &c. are ready for use. There are 
at present about thirty five engines in the city. One 
of the members is appointed to direct the water, in 
case of fire, and the members and citizens generally, 
render their assistance where wanted. A universal 
spirit prevails on such occasions, .among the people, 
who exert themselves with an activity, even in the 
most inclement weather, that v/ould seem to arise 
from their having an interest in the property on fire, 
or stock in the office in which the house was insured; 
and actions of disinterested heroism and intrepidity 
have often been peribrmed, (commonly by the labour- 
ing class, or mechanics,) which would have, in ancient 

M 2 



138 PROVISION AGAINST FIRE. 

times, been rewarded by public honours. Many such 
instances have occurred, and some acts have deserv- 
edly been perpetuated, by honourable testimonials 
from offices in v^hich the property on fire had been 
insured. 

The introduction of the water of the river Schuyl- 
kill, into Philadelphia, led to the establishment of a 
system for extinguishing fires, that cannot be exceed- 
ed for either dispatch or effect, and deserves par- 
ticular notice. The occurrence of a fire in 1803, which 
destroyed or injured eight new houses, in Sansom 
street, gave the idea of attaching a hose to the fire 
plugs of the hydrants in the streets, by which the fire 
engines might be more rapidly filled than by means 
of men standing in a lane, or even before a lane could 
be formed i"^ and through which the water would 
also be forced, and might be directed to the part of 
a house on fire. A meeting of a few young men was 
accordingly called at the house of the gentlemanf 
who happily conceived the idea; when it was resolved 
to form themselves into a company, and to procure a 
hose, and carriage to convey it : but as the expense 
of these, and the erection of a house to contain them, 
would be beyond their means, assistance was sought 
for from citizens who possessed real estate of great val- 
ue, and from insurance companies; and a sum was soon 
obtained, which enabled them to accomplish their de- 
sign. The original association assumed the name of 
*' The Philadelphia Hose Company," and a system 
of discipline was established, which gave full effect to 

* The usual mode of supplying engines in time of fire, is by- 
buckets handed to men arranged in double columns from pumps 
to the engines. Fifteen minutes are generally employed infilling 
an engine by means of a lane; and only one minute and a half by 
a hose. If the engine have a hose from its air vessel, the hose 
which supplies it, will keep it constantly full. 
t Reuben Haines. 



PROVISION AGAINST FIRE. iSg 

their operations. At the first fire that occurred after 
their establishment^, during a severely cold night, 
their exertions were so successful as to excite the ge- 
neral attention of the citizens present, and to call 
forth several public testimonies in their favour. The 
original patrons of this youthful patriotic association, 
had the satisiaction of seeing that their pecuniary as- 
sistance had been well bestowed ; and the company 
were gratified by additional subscriptions from the 
citizens and insurance companies ; and by seeing as- 
sociations similar to their own, forming in the city. 

The foll0wing is a list of the present hose compa- 
nies in Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia, Good Intent, Resolution, Humane, 
Neptune, Perseverance, Hope, Columbia, South« 
wark. 

Each company consists of about thirty members, 
all of whom are engaged in the active pursuits of life, 
and many of them acquiring trades. Every opera- 
tion is performed systematically. The members are 
designated by badges upon their hats ; and on the 
alarm of fire, they are to be seen with their appara- 
tus brought to the spot, ready to supply the engines 
as they arrive, or to apply water immediately to the 
place on fire, by means of branch pipes. The hose 
is of leather, two and a half, or tv/o and one eighth 
inches diameter; generally a thousand feet in extent, 
and divided into sections of fifty feet, all capable of 
being united, each section being connected by brass 
swivell screws. 

The carriage of the Philadelphia company appears 
to be most complete ; the hose being wound upon 
a cylinder, at once calculated to air it, a measure es- 
sential to its preservation, and to retain it in proper 

* March 3d, 1803, in Whalebone alley. 



140 WOODEN BUILDINGS. 

order. It has, moreover, a bell, by the sound of which 
the members of the company may know where to 
find it in the night, when out on duty. 

While it is universally admitted that the services 
of these companies have been great, the fact, that 
young men conceived and matured the plan, gives 
it a particular claim to commendation. The ex- 
pense of keeping in repair the carriages, hose, and 
all the apparatus, is great, and latterly, has chiefly de- 
volved on the members, whose gratuitous and pat- 
riotic exertions certainly should secure them against 
pecuniary loss. The corporation, holders of property, 
and fire insurance companies, are particularly inter- 
ested in keeping up these establishments. 

The following estimate of the value of the fire ap- 
paratus, in the city of Philadelphia, it is belie;ved, is 
below the actual cost. 

35 engines, houses, &c. ;gl200each, g42,000 

Ladders and fire hooks, . . . 1,000 
Nine hose companies, 7850 feet of") innno 

hose ; houses, carriages and apparatus, J ' 

Houses and apparatus belonging to "J 
" The Protectors of Property in time > 400 

of fire," j 

^65,000 
This last association is lately formed, to prevent 
depredations in time of fire. They have large baskets 
to carry out goods, and carriages with distinguish- 
ing badges, to convey them away. 

Wooden Buildings, , 

Since 1796, no wooden buildings are permitted to be 
erected in the thickly settled parts of the city, the li- 
mits of which are designated, under a penalty of five 
hundred dollars, and one hundred dollars addition- 



WEIGHTS AND MEASUEES. 141 

al, for every three months after conviction, during 
which the same shall remain ; and eveiy person em- 
ployed in the building or erecting any wooden man- 
sion, shall forfeit and pay a fine not exceeding one 
hundred dollars. This excellent law has greatly 
tended to lessen fires in the city, and to improve its 
appearance. 

Weights and Measures, 

The following is a part of a report on this sub- 
ject, made to the legislature of Pennsylvania, in the 
session of 1807, by Mr. John Dorsey. 

"There are in the city of Philadelphia, two offices 
of regulation for weights and measures. One for 
measures of the dry kind, and one lor measures of 
the wet kind, and for weights. The former office 
contains an ancient copper or brass half bushel, sup- 
posed to have been brought from England by Wil- 
liam Penn, or Nathaniel Allen, and to be the same 
that is mentioned in the law of 1700. At this time, 
however, there is no certainty, as there are no dis- 
coverable marks of British regulation, as are by the 
said law required : the marks are B. N. E. in two 
places. It is coarsely made; the diameters and bottom 
unequal and irregular; is bruised and patched, and 
does not agree in its contents with the Winchester 
bushel. By the best measurement that can be taken, 
it contains eleven hundred and thirteen, nine tenths, 
cubic inches, and is equal to the bushel of English 
cubic inches, two thousand two hundred and twenty 
seven, eight tenths. There is also a coal tub of usage, 
intended for two bushels, which when stricken, con- 
tains five half bushels, or about two thousand six hun- 
dred and eighteen cubic English inches, and three 
hundred and seventy parts of a thousand. This of- 
fice also contains a cast brass four quart standard. 



142 WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 

of two hundred and seventy five cubic inches, and 
a cast brass two quart standard of one hundred and 
thirty seven cubic inches, both marked with the let- 
ters W. R. and a crown stamp. The latter office con- 
tains a cast brass quart standard, same mark, of 
seventy one and a quarter cubic inches : and a cast 
brass pint standard, both stamped, and evidently of 
the set imported, as before mentioned. Being thus 
stamped, they are by the aforesaid law made legal, 
although they do not agree with the Winchester stand- 
ard.^ 

There are also in this office, a copper half gallon, 
and a copper quart, intended for the regulation of 
wine measures; an iron yard, or three feet measure 
of extension, without known accuracy. Neither of 
these three have any evidence of regulation or legal 
stamp. f There are likewise a number of brass 
weights in gradation from the fifty six pounds weight 
to the half ounce, which bear the appearance of ha- 
ving been imported in pursuance of the aforesaid 
law, having the stamps of the mural crown, the letter 
C, and the dagger f , which are evidently of the city of 
London regulation. They do not bear the due and 
relative proportion each to the other, especially in the 
smaller weights ; nor can it be expected after such 
length of use : when last tried, the pound and aggre- 
gate ounces varied nearly an ounce. As regards the 
standard for troy weight, by which the precious metals 



* The law of 1700 enacts that " the standards of weights and 
measures shall be according' to the king-'s standards for the ex- 
chequer." — J. M. 

f The copper measures have probably been made in Philadel- 
phia. The yard was recently compared with a stamped steel mea- 
sure ofextension of France, (the Metre,) which is preserved in. 
the cabinetof the American Philosophical Society : and agreea- 
bly to the rule of proportion between English and French weights, 
was found sU'ictly accurate.— J. M, 



WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 14& 

are assayed and determined, there is none. The 
larger and gross v/eights are also irregular, and as^ 
there is no determinate unit of weight from which 
to proceed, there can be no accuracy." 

The report also shews the absurdity of having 
various units, as sources for weights and measures, 
" inasmuch as that thereby constant opportunities 
for wrong are afforded," and proposes that there 
should be but one unit standard, or source for mea- 
sures of extension ; one unit standard for measures 
of capacity, and one unit standard for weight : one 
office of regulation for each county : one mode of 
measurement by measures of capacity: viz. the strick- 
en, and one mode of weighing the neat hundred. 

The committee remark, " It is of the first conse- 
quence, that every nation should have its own com- 
plete establishment founded on the best principles ; 
but it is not of equal moment whether any two na- 
tions agree in having the same unit ; because a ta- 
ble of the relative proportions will instantly shew the 
quantity, according to the mode in any country. If 
this idea is safe, it goes far to abate the necessity of 
universal standards, inasmuch as, that if ever any such 
standard can be established, the unit of measure must 
be marked thereon, and considered as bearing a re- 
lative proportion thereto : otherwise, all landed titles 
would be annihilated. It then follows, that such 
standard would be little other than a table of relative 
proportions, because no nation could agree to change 
the unit which governs the acre." 

They propose to adopt the following well known 
principle as a standard. " That a measure of capacity 
which will contain an exact cubic English foot, will, if 
filled with pure or distilled water, at sixty degrees 
of Farhenheit's thermometer, the water therein will 
weigh one thousand avoirdupois ounces. If then the 
foot measure is divided into tenths, we obtain iust 



144 AUCTIONEERS. 

one thousand such cubic tenths of water, each of 
which will weigh an avoirdupois ounce ; ten whereof 
will give the unit or weight : ten whereof will also 
give the unit or measure : and ten whereof will give 
our common foot. These being each commensurate 
with the other, will individually be a test for the ad- 
justment of the remaining two : a principle more safe 
than that upon which the weights and measures of 
Great Britain are founded : viz. That thirty two or 
twenty four grains of wheat, well dried and gathered 
from the middle of the ear, shall in their multiple 
give the pound: or thatthree barley corns shall, in their 
multiple, give the foot, inasmvich as that the size of 
the grain must always be according to the soil, or 
mode of cultivation." The bushel and gallon of Bos- 
ton. New York and Baltimore, all differ from that 
of Philadelphia ; and it is said, from each other. 
These facts shew the immediate necessity of atten- 
tion to the subject of weights and measures, by the 
general government. 

The reporter since states, that there is reason to 
believe that pure or distilled water, dropping from 
the exterior of an inverted cove, at a given tempe- 
rature of the thermometer and barometer, will be of 
uniform weight to the extent of the number of drops 
which are necessary to form the ounce : if so, the 
system would be complete : viz. a certain number of 
drops would give the present avoirdupois ounce ; 
the ounce squared, would give the one tenth part of 
the present English foot, or measure of extension ; 
and also the measure of capacity. 

Auctioneers* 

Six auctioneers are appointed by the governor, for 
the sale oi goods ot all kinds, and household iurni- 
ture in the city of Philadelphia, who are obliged to 



CITY SURVEYORS. 145 

give ample security for the payment of the state duty 
chargeable on the sale of goods. 

The following commissions are allowed the auc- 
tioneers. 

For groceries, . . , » 1|- per cent. 
Dry goods, ... 24 „ 

Household goods, » « 2-I- „ 

Real estate and ships, » 1 „ 

The state duty, ... 1 „ 

A heavy penalty is incurred by unlicensed persons 
attempting to sell by auction. 

The revenue derived to the state from auction du» 
ties is considerable. 

In the year 1809, it amounted to ^33,635 22 

„ 1810, „ . . 45,000 

The auctioneers make quarterly payments of the 
state duty to the state treasurer. 

The auctioneers are, John Dorsey, Frederick 
Montmollin, Thomas Passmore, John Humes, 
(Humes & Etting,) Peter Kuhn, Silas E. Weir. 

An auctioneer is also appointed for the exclusive 
public sale of horses and carriages. The days of sale 
are confined to Wednesday and Saturday : and a 
place of sale specifically appointed, which at present 
is the south east part of the center square. A penalty 
of four dollars is incurred by evei;y person, for each 
and every head of horse or cattle sold by auction in 
any other place or time, or within the prescribed li- 
mits, at any other time than before specified. 

The commissions allowed by law are, one per cent 
to the state, and two and a half to the auctioneer* 

Auctioneer, A. M'Karaher. 

City Surveyors, 

By act of February, 1721, the mayor and common^ 
alty were authorized to appoint two surveyors, or 



146 CITY SURV^EYOIIS. 

regulators, wliose duty it was to set the foundations 
of houses, and regulate the walls to be built between 
party and part}', as to the breadth or thickness there- 
of ; which foundation shall be equally laid upon lands 
of the persons between whom such party wall is to 
be made. The first builder shall be reimbursed one 
half of the charge of such party wall, or for so much 
thereof as the next builder shall have occasion to 
make use of, before he shall break into the said wall. 
The value is to be set by the said regulators. Ten 
pounds penalty is incurred on laying a foundation 
or party wall, before the same be viewed. An appeal 
irom the regulators to the court of common pleas is 
provided for, by act of the 15th of April, 1782. By 
this lav/, no vaults may be dug under the street, with- 
out first obtaining leave from four justices, and a ma- 
jority of the regulators. 

By the thirty sixth section of the act of incorpora- 
tion, the mayor, or recorder and four aldermen are 
authorized to perform all such matters as the war- 
dens and street commissioners, in conjunction with the 
justices, were required to do. They therefore ap- 
point regulators. 

In 1804, councils passed an ordinance requiring 
the mayor to appoint two qualified persons to make 
a survey, and regulate, with respect to ascents and 
descents, all the principal unpaved streets of the ci- 
ty, between Delaware Fifth street and the river 
Schuyikill, ascertaining the highest and most eleva- 
ted part of each street, from v/hich the water ought 
to run in different directions : and to make per- 
manent marks at the height of two feet above what 
ought to be the level of the water course ; and to fix 
the course of such common sewers, as they shall judge 
necessary. Hie surveyors are also required to make 
a dra t of all the principal streets and water courses 
within the aforesaid bounds, marking the several 



WATER WORKS. 147' 

points of greatest elevation in each street ; and to in- 
sert in a book, the quantity of descent, expressed in 
inches to the hundred feet, and the depth and quan- 
tity of descent of the sewers ; which book is to be 
deposited in the city commissioners office, for pub- 
lic inspection. The task has been executed by P»lr. 
Reading Howell. Future surveyors, and the city com- 
missioners, are required to regulate the lines and li- 
mits of the streets, agreeably to the aforesaid draft. 
There are now four city regulators : James Fear- 
son, Reading Howell, William Stevenson, William 
Garrigues. 

Water Works. 

The attention of the public, to the future necessity 
of a supply to Philadelphia, of other water than that 
afforded by pumps and wells, was first excited by the 
venerable Franklin ; and in his will, he directed that 
when the interest arising from a legacy which he left 
for a purpose hereafter to be mentioned, amounted to 
a certain sum, it should be applied to the important 
object. Repeated attacks of an a\yful epidemic, a 
growing conviction in the public mind, of the connec- 
tion between the cleanliness of a city, and its heahh ; 
of the utility of a copious supply of water in case of 
fire, and for culinary purposes -, and the deterioration 
of our pump water becoming every year more per- 
ceptible, a general sentiment appeared to prevail on 
the subject. In 1797, petitions were accordingly ad- 
dressed to the city councils, signed by an unprece- 
dented number of respectable citizens; and their at- 
tei.tion was, in consequence, powerfully directed 
thereto. Various schemes were proposed : the chief 
of v/hich were, 1, The completion of the canal in- 
tended to unite the Delaware and Schuylkill. 2, Con- 
ducting the water of Spring-mill, fifteen mules, N. N. 



148 WATER WORKS. 

W. of Philadelphia.* 3, To make a reservoir upon 
the banks of the Schuylkill, to throw up a sufficient 
quantity of v/ater into a tunnel, and to carry it thence 
to a reservoir in Center Square : and after being rais- 
ed there, to distribute it throughout the city by pipes. 
This was proposed by Mr. Latrobe. Other plans 
were suggested, which it is unnecessary to mention. 
After much deliberation, councils determined upon 
the last plan, and Mr. Latrobe was accordingly em- 
ployed by the committee, as engineer, and to make the 
necessary inquiry, as to the possibility of procuring the 
erection of steam engines of sufficient power, A con- 
tract was entered into with N. J. Roosevelt, of Soho, 
on the river Passaick, in New Jersey, for two steam 
engines, of a power to raise and deliver, at the height 
of fifty feet each, three million gallons of water in 
every twenty-four hours, throughout the year : and 
in order to provide for the great expenses which 
would be incurred by the work, councils proposed to 
borrow ^150,000, and pledged the income of the cc^'- 
porate estates of Philadelphia, and other adequate 
provision within the means and power of the city cor- 
poration, together with any aid the legislature might 
grant, for payment of the interest and redemption of 
the principal. Subscribers to this loan, were also to 
be entitled, in the first instance, to a preference of a 
supply of water, to one dwelling house of each share 
so sulDscribed, for three years, free of charge : but 
notwithstanding the ample security offered to monied 
men, and the respectability of the citizens in the coun- 
cils, who took an active part in the business, the loan 
progressed with a slow pace. Two causes contributed 
to this circumstance. A loan had been proposed by 
the United States, at eight per cent, while only six 



-j-«. 



* An account of this spring shall be given hereafter., 



WATER WORKS. 149 

per cent, the legal interest of Pennsylvania, "vyas of- 
fered by the corporation. 2d, The stockholders of 
the Schuylkill and Delaware canal, whose charter 
granted to them the liberty of watering the city, op- 
posed the project at every step, by petition to the 
legislature ; and by their influence in the city and 
councils, as an infringement of their rights. This oppo- 
sition contributed to a denial of that aid which had been 
requested, by petitions of the citizens and of the coun- 
cils. 3d, From the novelty of the undertaking, the ge- 
neral failure of all previous attempts at the application 
of steam to mechanical purposes, in the United States, 
especially to boats: and our inexperience in the con- 
ducting the operations of a steam engine on land, a,lso 
contributed, in the minds of many of the citizens, to 
raise doubts of the successful issue of the proposed 
scheme. Under these discouraging prospects, and in 
the hope that by a more clear developement of the 
plan, as expanded to view by its exrecution, confi- 
dence would be excited, and adequate subscriptions 
be made, councils, with a spirit of perseverance that 
cannot be too much praised, resolved to advance the 
work, with the funds in hand : but these were soon 
found to be inadequate ; the individual m.em.bers of 
the committee then generously advanced the neces- 
sary sums wanted, and the Bank of the United States 
also, afterwards loaned the sum of ^20,000, in an- 
ticipation of a tax of ^50,000, which councils deter- 
mined to raise. By these aids, the works proceeded, 
and the credit of the city was preserved. On the 2d 
of May, 1799, the frst sod v/as dug, and although a 
dreadful epidemic fever prevailed in the succeeding 
autumn, the work v/ent on without interruption, and 
on the 21st of January, 1801, the first water was 
thrown into the city, about one mile of pipes being 
then laid. The rapidity with which the works were 
pushed forward, notwithstanding the solidity and 

N 2 



15© WATER WORKS. 

mass of the buildings, tunnells and piers, and in spite 
of the fever that afflicted the city, reflects infinite 
credit upon the engineer, and the committee of coun- 
cils, with whom the superintendence of the work was 
specifically charged. 

The foregoing account has been designedly minute, 
in order to shew the numerous difficulties that oppo- 
sed the water works in their commencement ; the 
great benefit from them, we hourly experience, and to 
which some of the then most violent opposers, have 
since owed the preservation of their property, and in 
all probability, the city much of its present health: for 
without pretending to ascribe to them all the latter 
effect, it may be mentioned as a striking fact, that 
the malignant fever in 1801, and since that year, 
has been chiefly, if not entirely, confined to those 
parts of the city and liberties, into which the water 
had not yet been introduced. 

The mode in which the watering of the city is ef- 
fected, is first by forming a basin on the Schuylkill 
shore, 84 feet wide, and 200 long, the bed of which 
is three feet below low water mark; from which is an 
open canal, of 160 feet long, extending to near the 
rise of the hill on which the lower engine stands. 
From thence the water passes through a subterrane- 
ous tunnei, six feet in diameter, and three hundred feet 
long, cut nearly the vfhole distance through granite 
rock, to the shaft in the engine house, where the pumps 
are fixed: this shaft or well is fifty-four feet deep, and 
ten feet in diameter ; and is for twenty two feet, also 
cut out of the rock. After the water is raised through 
the shaft, by the engine, it falls into a brick tunnel of 
6 feet diameter, and 1408 yards in length, which 
passes under ground, and leads the water up Ches- 
nut street to Broad street, and from thence, into the 
center engine house, where it is again raised 36 feet 
from the surface of the street, and runs into a reser- 



• WATER WORKS. 151 

voir containing 1 6,000 gallons : from this it descends 
to an iron chest, outside of the building, to which the 
different mains that supply the general distribution 
are connected ; the mains are, two of 6 inches diame- 
ter, and two of 44 inches. 

The lower engine near Schuylkill, is a double steam 
engine of forty inches cylinder, and six feet stroke. 
The boiler is seventeen feet long, eight feet wide at the 
bottom, nineteen feet long, and ten feet wide at the 
height of five feet seven inches. It consumed fifty 
bushels of coals, and half a cord of wood, while roll- 
ing iron twelve hours, at twenty strokes per min- 
ute; and pumping water, six hours, at twelve strokes 
per minute. The air pump is an improvement up- 
on that used by Bolton and Watt ; consisting in its 
evacuating the condenser twice at every stroke, there- 
by creating a much better vacuum, and of course 
adding considerably to the power of the engine, in 
proportion to the diameter of its cylinder without 
increasing friction. 

The engine at the center square is also a double 
steam engine, the diameter of whose cylinder is thirty 
two inches. It is worked irregularly, filling alter- 
nately the elevated reservoir, and stopping during 
the time occupied by the discharge of the water in- 
to the city. Mr. Latrobe rated it at twelve strokes of 
six feet, per minute, for sixteen hours in twenty-four, 
during which time it consumed from twenty-five to 
thirty-three bushels of best Virginia coals.* 

The pipes through the city are chiefly of four and 
a half, and three inches bore. 

The length of pipes laid, is about 35 miles. They 
extend through all the improved parts of the city. 



* A more particular account of the construction of these en- 
gines, boilers, &c. may be found in the Trans. Ainer. Phil, 
Vfoc Vol 6. p. 89, by Mr. Latrobe. 



ISS WATER WORKS. 

The whole expense of the works from the com- 
mencement, to November 1, 1810, has been about 
^500,000. 

The pipes are bored by placing the log in two 
cast iron rings, and centered by regulating screws ; 
as the log turns, the augers enter at each end, and 
meet in the middle ; a pipe of fifteen feet long can 
be bored, and the joints made for the connecting 
cylinders, in fifteen minutes. 

The connecting cylinders are of cast iron, widening 
at both ends, that as the log is driven up, the joints 
become tight. 

Private families are supplied with water by small 
wooden and leaden pipes : the ferules that connect 
with the conduit, are half an inch diameter for private 
families, and larger, for brev/eries, manufactories, &c. 

The number of manufactories, &c. supplied No- 
vember the first, 1809, was 1590. 

The rents of vfhich amounted to ^9,105 

The number of manufactories to November the 
first, 1810, . . ... 1,922 

The rents . ... ^10,931 

Five engine men are employed in the work through 
the year, and eight others, including a blacksmith, a 
carpenter, a brass founder, and assistants. When pipes 
are laying and boring, more men are required. 

The duty of attending to the various concerns 
of the water v/orks devolves on the watering 
COMMITTEE, which is again formed into subcom- 
mittees of distribution, of accounts, and for purchase 
of fuel, timber, &c. 

The committee of distribution regulate where pipes 
shall be placed, situations for pumps, fire plugs, and 
all other public fixtures; fix the price of water rents 
for manufactories, and all other works that require 
more water than a private dwelling. 



WATER WORKS. 153 

Committee of accounts, examine the accounts and 
form an annual report to councils of the statement 
of the work, accounts, &c. 

Committee for purchase of fuel, attend to the pur- 
chase of wood and coal. 

Committe for timber, purchase all the pipe timber, 
and what other may be required. 

The committee at large, direct the repairs and 
alterations. 

The funds for the support of the works are raised 
by amount of water rents; the balance by a tax. 

The water rents of this year amount to ^10,931 

The balance by tax. • • * 18,500 



S29,431 
which together are the estimate for carrying on the 
work for the year 1811. 

The quantity of water pumped, will average 
700,000 gallons per twenty-four hours. 

The hydrant pumps are similar in construction 
to the common well pumps; the mode of supplying 
them is by a small cistern, to which the water is 
conducted, and fed by means of a ball cock, the ball 
having a lever which connects with the plug of the 
cock, that when the water in the cistern falls, the ball 
follows, and of course opens the cock. 

The watering committee, from a desire to prevent 
the very great waste of the Schuylkill water, which 
prevails throughout the city, have published the 
following statement, to show how necessary it is 
for every person to avoid (and prevent as far as is 
in their power) all waste of the water, with which 
the city is so abundantly supplied, at a very great 
expense, which is considerably increased by continual 
abuses in the use thereof. 

The quantity of water raised at the center square 
engine, for thesupply of the city, is about 250 mil- 



154 MINT. 

lions of gallons in a year, which cost about 20,000 
dollars, or eight cents for a thousand gallons. 

From various experiments made to ascertain the 
quantity of water discharged through a ferule of 
half an inch diameter in one minute, the result was, 
seven to ten and a half gallons, according to the 
situation and head of water at the center engine, the 
average of which is eight, five eighths gallons per min- 
ute, which in one hour will amount to 517-1- galls. 

In one day .... 12,420 do. 

In one year . . . 4,533,300 do. 

If the water from one house runs only half an 
hour in every day, the quantity in a year v/ill 
amount to 94,500 gallons, at eight cents per thou- 
sand gallons, is . . . . $7 56 

The rent for the house per year is . 5 00 

The loss to the city is . . . 2 56 

The fire plugs are three inches diameter and will 
each discharge in one minute, from 200 to 250 gal- 
lons of water, according to the dimensions of the 
pipe of conduit it is attached to, and the head at the 
center square, so that in one hour from 12,000 to 
15,000 gallons of water may be discharged from one 
lire plug. 

Mint. 

Previously to the passage of the law, by the fed* 
eral government, for regulating the coins of the Uni- 
ted States, much perplexity arose from the use of 
no less than four different currencies or rates, at which 
one species of coin was reckoned in the diiferent 
parts of the union. Thus, in New Hampshire, Mas- 
sachusetts, Main, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, Ver- 
mont, Virginia, and lientucky, the dollar was reck- 
oned at six shillings; in New York and North Caro- 
lina, at eight shillings ; in New Jersey, Pennsylvania 



MINT. 155 

and Maryland, at seven shillings and sixpence. In 
Georgia and South Carolina, at four and eight pence. 

This subject had engaged the attention ofthe con- 
gress of the old confederation, and the present sys- 
tem of the coins, is formed upon the principles laid 
down in their resolve of 1/86: by which the de- 
nominations of m.oney of account, were required to 
be dollars, (the dollar being the unit) dismes or tenths, 
cents or hundredths, and mills or thousandths of a 
dollar. Nothing can be more simple or convenient 
than this decimal subdivision, and the terms are" 
proper because they express the proportions which 
they are intended to designate. The dollar was 
wisely chosen, as it corresponded with the Spanish 
coin, with which we had been long familiar. 

In the year 1792, a law was passed by the gene- 
ral government for establishing a mint, and for regu- 
lating the coins of the United States ; by this law, 
the iollowing coins were to be struck, 

1, Eagles; each to be ofthe value often dollars, 
and to contain 247^ grains of pure gold, or 270 
grains of standard gold. 

2, Half eagles; each to be of the value of five 
dollars, and to cont.^in 123 grains of pure gold, or 

*135 grains of standard gold, 

3, Quarter eagles; each to be of the value of 
two dollars and fifty cents, and to contain 61 -J of 
pure gold, or 674 gi*ains of standard gold. 

Silver Coins, 

1. Dollars or units ; each to be of the value of 
one hundred cents, and to contain 371-i^ grains of 
pure silver, or 416 grains of standard silver, 

2, Half dollars; each to be fifty cents, and to con- 
tain 1854§ grains of pure silver, or 208 grains of 
standard silver. 



Us MINT. 

3. Quarter dollars; each to be twenty five cents, 
or one fourth of the value of the dollar or unit j and 
to contain 92-|-|- grains of pure silver. 

4. Dismes; each to be of the value of ten cents, or; 
one tenth of a dollar, and to contain 37to grains of 
pure silver, or 41 f grains of standard silver. 

5. Half dismes; each to be of the value of five 
cents, or one twentieth of a dollar, and to contain 
1 8tV grains of pure silver, or 20|^ grains of standard 
silver. 

A pound of pure gold, is equal in value to 15 pounds 
of pure silver.^ 

Copper Coins, 

Cents ; each to be of the value of the one hun- 
dredth part of a dollar, and to contain 168 grains. 
Half cents J to contain 84 grains of copper. 

Alloy, 

Gold coins are to consist of eleven parts of pure 
gold ; and one part alloy. The alloy to be composed 
of silver and copper, in such proportions not exceed- 
ing one half silver, as shall be iound convenient ; 
to be regulated by the director of the mint, for the 
time being, with the approbation of the president 
of the United States. 

Silver coins are to consist of 1485 parts of pure 
silver, to 1 79 parts copper. 

The following devices are impressed on the re- 
spective gold and silver coins. On one side, a female 
head, emblematic of liberty, with an inscription of the 
word " Liberty," the thirteen stars, and the year of 
the coinage : and on the reverse, an eagle, emblematic 



wnmfi'm iij« ■ ■-? 



In England it is 15 1-5— In France 15 3-5. 



MINT. 157 

of the arms of the United States, with the inscrip- 
tion E PLURiBUs UNUM, and the value of the piece. 
On the copper coins, a female head, with the word 
"liberty" on the ribbon round the head, with 13 
stars, in a circle, and the year of the coinage ; and on 
the reverse, the word " one cent," surrounded by a 
wreath, and the inscription " united states of 
America" on the outer circle. 

No Charge is made for coining bullion. 

At the first establishment of the mint, great dif- 
ficulties and embarrassments were experienced from 
a variety of causes ; but time has overcome them all, 
and it is understood, that in some respects the pro- 
cess of striking is more complete than in most other 
countries, England excepted. 

The mode of hardening the dies is peculiar to 
the mint, and is the discovery of the present assistant 
coiner, Mr. Eckfeldt. The beauty of the coin of the 
United States, is not inferior to that of any country 
in the world. There is a sharpness and cleanness of 
cut, not perceptible in those of either France or Spain. 

The annual expense of the mint establishment, 
amounts to about 20,000 dollars. On the second 
Monday in February, the commissioner of loans, 
the district judge, and attorney general, are required, 
by law, to attend at the mint, for the purpose of 
having the coins assayed, which have been reserved, 
in order to ascertain whether the coins issued from 
the mint, during the past year, are equal to the stand- 
ard fixed by law. 

Since the establishment of the mint, there have 
been coined, of 

Gold, to the amount of . S2, 763,597 50 

Silver, . . . 4,370,846 50 

Copper, . , . 214,977 21 



Total value of coinage to 1809, B8,349,421 21 

o 



15S JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

of which the sum of ^3,712,488 have been issued 
during the last lour years. The issue oi the year 
1810, amounts to Si, 155,868 50. Oi the gold coins, 
the value oi ^27,000 is the produce of North Caro- 
lina. 

The present officers are, Director, Robert Pat- 
terson. Treasurer, Benjamin Rush. Chiei coiner, 
Henry Voight. Melter and refiner, Joseph Cloud. 
Assayer, Joseph Richardson. Engraver, Robert 
Scott. 

The yatl^ and Management of Criminals, 

Previously to a description of the jail, and of the 
mode of punishing criminals, it will be proper to 
give a short account of the revolution which has ta- 
ken place in the penal laws of the state. 

So much trouble had been given to the British go- 
vernment, by reason of the lax conditions contained 
in the patent of the trading company, under which 
the colony of Massachusetts had been formed ; that 
it naturally became more attentive to the terms of 
the charter, granted to the founder of Pennsylvania, 
in order to prevent those assumptions of power, and 
attempts at independence, so natural on the part of 
colonists remote from the mother country. The char- 
ter of Charles II. therefore, to William Penn, which 
was drawn up by one of the most able lawyers of his 
time, enjoined that the laws should be made " as near 
as conveniently may be, agreeably to the laws, stat- 
utes and rights or England, with a saving to the 
crown in case of appeals ;" and in order to insure an 
observance of this injunction, it was ordered, that 
a transcript of all laws, shall within five years after 
the making thereof, be transmitted to the privy coun- 
cil, for the royal approbation or dissent. The hu- 
mane niind of Penn revolted against the sanguinary 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 15^ 

punishments of Britain, and therefore, attempted the 
amelioration of the penal code. " He abolished the 
ancient oppression of forfeitures for sell murder, and 
deodands in all cases of homicide. He saw the wick- 
edness of exterminating, w^here it was possible to re- 
form; and the folly of capital punishments, in a coun- 
try, where he hoped to establish purity of morals, and 
innocence of manners. As a philosopher, he wished 
to extend the empire of reason and humanity : and 
as a leader of a sect, he might recollect, that the in- 
fliction of death in cold blood, could hardly be justi- 
fied by those who denied the lawfulness of war. He 
hastened, therefore, to prevent the operation of the 
sj^stem which the charter imposed ; and among the 
first cares of his administration, was that of forming 
a small, concise, but complete code of criminal law, 
suited to the state of his new settlement. Murder, 
*' wilful and premeditated," is the only crime ior 
which the infliction of death is prescribed, and this 
is declared to be enacted in obedience " to the law 
of God," as though there had not been any political 
necessity, even for this punishment : yet even here, the 
life of the citizen was guarded by a provision, that 
no man should be convicted, but upon the testimony 
of two Witnesses; and by a humane practice, early in- 
troduced, of staying execution till the record of con- 
viction had been laid before the executive, and iuil 
opportunity given to obtain a pardon of the offence, 
or a mitigation of the punishment. When transmit- 
ted to England, they were all repealed by the queen in 
council : but were immediately reenacted, and they 
continued until the year 1718,=^" the epoch of Penn's 
death. The penal code of England was then revived. 



* Inquiry how far the punishment of death is necessary \\\ 
Pennsylvania. By William Bradford, Philadelphia. Dobson, 1793. 



160 JAIL AND PEKAL CODE. 

The constitution of Pennsylvania, formed upon 
tlie declaration of independence, among many faults, 
contained some excellent provisions, one of which 
directed "the legislature to proceed to the reforma- 
tion of the penal laws, and to inventpunishments less 
sanguinary, and better proportioned to the various 
degrees of criminality." The continuance of a war, 
in which the liberty of the country was at stake, left 
no time to attend to any subject except those of the 
greatest urgency ; nothing therefore was done until 
after the conclusion of the contest, and until the 
numerous concerns arising from the circumstance of 
the war had been settled. In 1786, the attempt was 
made by the passage of a law, to introduce the pun- 
ishment of hard labour for some offences, which un- 
der the old system had been capital, and to confine 
that of death to four crimes only. The labour 
which the convicts were to perform, was however 
to be public, and they were accordingly chained 
to wheelbarrows, and were employed to clean the 
streets, and repair the roads : as a mark of infamy, 
their heads were shaved, and they wore a particular 
habit. This alteration of the penal system was far 
from having the effect which the friends to humanity 
wished. While the sight of so many objects of 
public infamy was abhorrent to the feeling mind, the 
difficulty of watching them was great, and escapes 
occurred to an alarming extent. " Pardons, so destruc- 
tive to every mild system of penal laws, were granted 
with a profusion, as unaccountable as it was mischiev- 
ous, from both of which causes it happened that men 
were scarcely convicted, before many of them were 
again let loose upon the public.*" Mistaken or mis- 



Bradford's Inquiry, p. S3. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 161 

applied humanity of the citizens, supplied the con- 
victs with better fare than the labouring mechanic 
could afford to purchase, and also with the means of 
procuring spirituous liquors ; and hence intoxication 
was daily seen among men who were expiating their 
crimes by the deprivation of their liberty ; terror was 
sometimes excited by their presence ; they became 
hardened against shame; the various degrees of vice 
were mixed in one mass, so that from the effects of 
contamination, the great object of punishment, viz. 
the reformation of criminals, was completely de- 
feated. 

In the )^ear 1787, Dr. Rush, who had for several 
years before borne a testimony against the system of 
public punishments, read a paper at a " society for 
political inquiries," held at the house of the venerabie 
Franklin, entitled, " an inquiry into the influence of 
public punishments on criminals and society," which 
was afterwards published. In this he exposed the 
errors and mischief of the penal law that had been 
recently passed, and proposed that all punishments 
should be private, and that they should consist of con- 
finement, different kinds of labour, low diet, and soli- 
tude, accompanied by religious instruction. The prin- 
ciples contained in this pamphlet, were opposed w ith 
acrimony and ridicule, in the newspapers. They 
were considered as the schemes of a huinane heart, 
but wild and visionary imagination, which it was im- 
possible from the nature of man, and consdtat on 
of his mind, ever to realize, and as being much 
more adapted to the government oi an Utopia, 
than to those living under that of Pennsylvania. 
Notwithstanding a most powerail opposition, the law 
was repealed, after it had, by a continuance ot three 
years, proved the correctness of the arguments which 
had been urged against it. In place o: public pun- 
ishment, hard labour in private, fine, solitary in;^ 

o 2 



162 JAIL AND PENAL CODE; 

prisonment, and low diet were substituted : gen- 
eral regulations were laid down for the management 
of the prison, and inspectors were directed to be ap- 
pointed with power to make such further regulations 
for the purpose of carrying the act into execution, 
as should be approved by the mayor and recorder 
of the city. The legislature, as if apprehending 
that the new system would not ultimately answer, 
limited the law to five years. 

In the year 1788, Dr. Rush published a second 
pamphlet, entitled " an inquiry into the justice and 
policy of punishing murder by death,"^ in which he 
adopted and defended the opinion of the Marquis 
of Beccaria, by denying the right of government. to 
punish even the crime of deliberate murder by deathr 
To this pamphlet a reply was written by the Rev. Mr. 
Annan, of the Scotch presbyterian church,f who 
chiefly derived his arguments from scripture. Upon 
those texts Dr. Rush published a number of re- 
marks:]: intended to prove, that they all referred to the 
dispensations of Noah and Moses, and that they were 
completely abrogated by the doctrines and precepts 
of the gospel. In the year 1793, Mr. Bradford, the 
attorney general of Pennsylvania, published an " in- 
quiry how far the punishment of death is necessary 
in Pennsylvania," with notes and illustrations, and 
documents from the criminal courts of the state, 
calculated to enforce and establish the principles and 
arguments previously laid down by Dr. Rush. An 
account of the jail w^as added by Caleb Lownes, one 
of the inspectors of the prison. At the lollowing 
session of the legislature, the punishment of death 
was abolished for all crimes except murder of the 
first degree ; by which is understood '* all murder 
perpetrated by means of poison, or by lying in v/ait: 

* American Museum Vol. 4. 
fDo. do. do. 

t Do. do. 5. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 163 

or by any other kind of wilful, deliberate and premedi- 
tated killing; or which shall be committed in the per- 
petration, or attempt to perpetrate, any arson, rape, 
robbery or burglary." Such has been the effect of 
the abolition of the spectacles of public executions, 
upon the feelings of the citizens of Pennsylvania, 
that it is now difficult to obtain a jury that will find 
a man guilty of marder, even when it is attended 
with circumstances of malice and cruelty; for which 
reason, governor Snyder has recommended, in a 
message to the legislature of Pennsylvania, to abo- 
lish the punishment of death in all cases whatever. 
A motion to the same purpose, and prefaced by 
some powerful arguments, was made in the senate 
of Pennsylvania during the session of 1809, by Mr. 
John Connelly, to whom, with Mr. C. Lownes, may 
be justly ascribed the merit of bringing to the test 
of the fullest and most successful experience, the 
humane principles of the new penal code. These 
gentlemen were appointed inspectors of the prison, 
at an early period, and upon them chiefly devolved 
the arduous task of breaking down all difficulties 
arising from the long continuance of that most dis- 
gusting, that foul system of discipline, which had long 
disgraced the management of the jail. 

Those who recollect the situation of the jail of 
Philadelphia, under the former regime, or those 
who have seen the prisons of Europe at the present 
day, may readily form an opinion of the difficulties 
that attended the attempt at reformation, as contem- 
plated by the new code. The task was truly arduous: 
an Augean stable of filth and iniquity was not only 
to be cleansed, but industry, and morality to be 
introduced, and under difficulties that seemed al- 
most insurmountable. The jailor, the man whose 
duty required him to assist in the experiment, by a 
faithful obedience to the orders of the inspectors, con- 



164 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

stituted one of them, for he had grown wealthy by the 
abuses which had been for a longtime tolerated, and 
feared the introduction of a system which would cause 
his conduct to be closely watched^ and the garnish, jail 
fees, sale of liquor, and other perquisites to cease» 
His opposition was therefore decided, and the num- 
ber oi his friends enabled him to retain his place, 
notwithstanding the remonstrances of the inspectors 
against him. The prisoners were informed that their 
former habits of indolence, the free use of spiritu- 
ous liquors, and unrestrained intercourse were to 
end; and labour, sobriety and regularity to take place. 
They also therefore took the alarm, and on the even- 
ing of the first day on which the grand experiment was 
tried, they made a most desperate attempt to escape; 
fifteen of them succeeded. Upon the restoration of 
order, the adoption of mild, but decided conduct, ulti- 
mately secured the most perfect obedience. The pri- 
soners were informed that '' their treatment would de- 
pend upon their conduct, and that those who evinced 
a disposition that would afford encouragement to 
believe they might be restored to liberty, should 
be recommended for a pardon ; but if convicted 
again, the law in its iullest rigour would be carried 
into effect against them. A change of conduct was 
early visible They were encouraged to labour; 
their good conduct was remarked ; many were par- 
doned, and beiore one year was expired, their be- 
haviour was almost without exception, decent, or- 
derly, and respectTuL This fact is of importance, as 
it disproves an opinion that has led to much dis- 
tress and cruelty, and Vvill be an encouragement to 
those who can ieel ior ths unhappy class ol mankind, 
so long the Victims to the effects of a contrary treat- 
ment."* 



* Lowne's account of penal laws. Bradford's Inq^uiiy, p. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. i65 

A detail of the progress x>f the experiment, of the 
difficulties the inspectors had to encounter, from 
inexperience in the management of criminals, whose 
apparent amendment sometimes proved the veil for 
consummate hypocrisy ; the difficulty of procuring 
suitable and sufficient employment, for the various 
classes of convicts that came under their care ; the 
various steps by which, in fine, the system has been 
brought to its present perfection, would form materi- 
als for a display, which to the philanthropist, could 
not fail to be highly interesting ; but the nature of 
the present work requires an attention to brevity 
that forbids the attempt, and theretbre the system 
now in operation shall merely be given. 

1. Cleanliness J so intimately connected with mo- 
rality, is the first thing attended to, previously to any 
attempts at that internal purification, which it is tlie 
object of the discipline to effect. The criminal is 
washed, his clothes effectually purified and laid aside, 
and he is clothed in the peculiar habit of the jail, 
which consists of grey cloth, made by the prisoners, 
adapted to the season. The attention to this impor- 
tant point is unremitted, during their confinement. 
Their faces and hands are daily washed ; they are 
shaved, and change their linen once a week, their 
hair is kept short ; and, during the summer, they 
bathe in a large tub. The apartments are swept and 
washed once or twice a week, as required, through- 
out the year. 

2. Work suitable to the age and capacity of the 
convicts is assigned, and an account is opened with 
them. They are charged with their board, clothes, 
the fine imposed by the state, and expense of prose- 
cution, and credited for their work ; at the expi- 
ration of the time of servitude, half the amount of 
the sum, if any, left after deducting the charges, is 
required by law, to be paid to them. As the board 



5# JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

is low, the labour constant, and the working hours 
greater than among mechanics, it is easy tor the con- 
victs to earn more than the amount oi their expenses; 
so that when they go out, they receive a sum oi money 
sufficient to enable them to pursue a trade, li so dis- 
posed, or at least, that will keep them from want, 
until they find emplo^^, and prevent the necessity of 
stealing. 

On several occasions, '.he balance paid to a convict 
has amounted to more than one hundred dollars : in 
one instance it was one hundred and fifty dollars : 
and from ten to forty dollars are commonly paid. 
When, from the nature oi the Mork at which the 
convict has been employed, or his weakness, his la- 
bour does not amount to more than the charges 
agamst him, and his place of residence is at a dis- 
tance from Philadelphia, he is furaished with money 
sufficient to bear his expenses home. The price of 
boarding is. sixteen cents per day, and the general 
cost oi clothes lor a year, is nineteen dollars thirty 
Jthree cents. 

5. The prisoners lie on the floor, on a blanket, and 
about thirty sleep m one room; they are strictly pro- 
hibited irom keeping their clothes on at night. The 
hours for rising and retiring, are announced by a bell ; 
and at those times they go out and come in, with the 
greatest regularity. For their own comlort, they have 
established a set of rules, respecting cleanliness, on 
breach of which a fine is exacted. No one is even per- 
mitted to spit on the floor. A large lamp is hung up, 
out oi the reach of the prisoners, in every room, which 
enables the keeper or watch to see every man; and 
for this purpose a small aperture is made in every 
door. The end oi the cord by which the lamps are 
suspended, is outside of the rooms : the solitary cells 
is the punishment for extinguishing these lamps. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE, 1^ 

6. Their diet is wholesome, plain and invigorating, 
and their meals are served up with the greatest regu- 
larity and order : a bell announces when they are 
ready, and all collect at the door leading to the pas- 
sage where they eat, before any one is allowed to 
enter. They then take their seats without hurry or 
confusion ; and all begin to eat at the same time. 
While eating, silence is strictly enjomed by the pre- 
sence ol the keepers, who give notice oi the time 
for rismg rrom table. For breakfast, they have about 
three fourths oi a pound oi good bread, with mo- 
lasses and water. At dinner, half a pound of bread 
and beei, a bowl oi soup and potatoes. Sometimes 
herrings, in the spring. At supper, corn meal mush 
and molasses, and sometimes boiled nee. 

The blacks eat at a separate table. There is also 
a table set apart for those who have committed of- 
fences for the first time, but not oi sufficient enorm- 
ity to merit the solitary cells ; such as indolence, 
slighting work, impudence, he. and to such no meat 
is given. Every one finds his allowance ready on 
his trencher. The drmk is molasses and water, 
which has been round to be highly useiul, as a re- 
freshing draught, and as a medicine. Spirituous liquors 
or beer never enter the walls of the prison. The 
cooks and bakers are convicts, who are allowed thirty 
cents per day by the inspectors. The decency of 
deportment, and the expression oi content, exhibited 
by the convicts at their meals, renders a view of 
them, while eating, highly interesting. No provisions 
are permitted to be sent to the convicts from with- 
out. 

7. The regularity of their lives, almost secures 
them against disease. A physician, however, is ap- 
pointed to attend the prison, a room is appropriated 
for the reception of the sick or hurt, and nurses to 
attend them. The effect of the new system has 



168 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

been seen, in no particular, more evidently than in 
the diminution of disease among the convicts. 

8. Religious instruction was one of the original 
remedies prescribed for the great moral disease, 
which the present penal system is calculated to cure. 
Divine service is generally performed every Sunday, 
in a large room appropriated solely for the purpose. 
Some clergyman or pious layman, volunteers his 
services, and discourses are delivered, suited to the 
situation and capacities of the audience. The prison- 
ers in the cells, are denied this indulgence ; good 
books are likewise distributed among them. 

9. Corporal punishments are strictly prohibited, 
whatever offence may have been committed. The 
keepers carry no weapons, not even a stick. The 
solitary cells and low diet, have on all occasions 
been found amply sufficient to bring down the most 
determined spirit, to tame the most hardened villain, 
that ever entered them. Of the truth of this there 
are striking cases on record. Some veterans in vice, 
with whom it was necessary to be severe, have declared 
their preference of death by the gallows, to a further 
continuance in that place of torment. In the cells, the 
construction of which renders conversation among 
those confined in them difficult, the miserable man is 
left to the greatest of all possible punishments, his own 
reflections. His food, which consists of only half a 
pound of bread per day, is given him in the morning; in 
the course of a few days or weeks the very nature of 
the being is changed, and there is no instance of any 

one having given occasion for the infliction of this 
punishment a second time. Such is the impression 
which the reports of its effects have left among the 
convicts, that the very dread of it is sufficient to 
prevent the frequent commission oi those crimes, for 
which it is the known punishment, as swearing, im- 



JAIL AXD PENAL CODE. 16,9 

pudence, rudeness, quarrelling, indolence repeated, 
or wilful injury to the tools, or to articles of manufac- 
ture. 

The fear of the cells is also increased from other 
causes. The convicts are well acquainted with the 
general principles of the system pursued ; and hearing 
the grating of the stone saw, or the noise of the nail 
hammer, they naturally reflect, that while they them- 
selves are idle, their comparatively happy fellow con- 
victs are working out their daily expenses and laying 
up a sum for themselves, when their period of servi- 
tude shall arrive; and that their own confinementin pri- 
son must either be prolonged, or that they must redou- 
ble their industry after liberation from the cells, to 
make up for lost time: and above all, that the hopes of 
pardon, or of a diminished time of service, are cut oif 
by thus incurring the displeasure of the inspectors. 
Whatever additional reflections occur to them, these 
alone are sufficiently powerful to prevent a repetition 
of off'ences. 

Formerly, all revenue arising from the work of the 
city and county convicts, was paid to the keeper of the 
prison, the deficiency for its support being advanced 
by the commissioners of the county of Philadelphia, 
who collected the monies for the support of the con- 
victs, from the diff'erent counties ; but by a law passed 
February 1809, the amount of the work is to be paid 
to the treasurer of the inspectors, who are also au- 
thorised to choose, by the same act, a president and 
secretary from their own body. All monies are to 
be paid by the treasurer, upon the orders of the 
board, signed by the president, and attested by the 
secretary : his accounts are to be settled every two 
weeks. He is authorised, in the name of the presi- 
dent of the board, to sue for, and recover all monies 
due from individuals to the institution. The accounts 
of the inspectors are settled by three persons, ap- 



170 jaIl and penal code. 

pointed annually, in March, by the court of quarter 
sessions. 

There are fourteen inspectors, three of whom are 
elected by the select and common councils in joint 
meeting, in May and November ; two by the com- 
missioners of the Northern Liberties, and two by 
the commissioners of Southwark, at the same time. 
Three members are appointed out of the board, to 
inspect the accounts of the prison, who are to fur- 
nish, on oath or affirmation, on the first week in Jan- 
uary, annually, to the commissioners of such coun- 
ties as may have become indebted for convicts con- 
fined in the prison, a correct account current of 
the amount of the weekly expenses incurred for the 
maintenance of said prisoners ; and of the value of 
the labour performed by them; which statement is 
to be attested by the president and clerk of the 
board. 

Although it would form no solid objection to 
the penal system of Pennsylvania, considering the 
good that has resulted from it, that the convicts did not 
maintain themselves, yet it will tend to increase 
our opinion of the value of the establishment, when 
we know that those men who have forfeited their 
right to liberty by the commission of crimes, ( for 
which they can have no plea in a country where 
there are never hands enough for the work going on) 
are not a burthen upon society. Hitherto, owing to 
the erection of the necessary buildings for the ac- 
commodation and security of the various convicts, 
the purchase ©f tools, and the maintenance of the 
vagrants, &c. the expense has been considerable, 
and probably equal to the amount of work done; 
but, the permanent expenses of the establishment hav- 
ing ceased, and full powers having been given to the 
inspectors to compel payment for the debts due to 
the jail, a balance now appears in favour of it, not- 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE, 171 

withstanding the constant maintenance of upwards 
of one hundred and fifty persons, vagrants, run away 
servants, and others for trial, who are employed solely 
in picking oakum and hair, and who cannot maintain 
themselves thereby. In this respect therefore, more 
has been done than was ever expected by the bene- 
volent Howard. 

The management of the prison is committed, as al- 
ready said, to a board of inspectors, with the usual 
resident officers, all of whose duties are pointed out 
by the following extract of an act of the legislature, 
and by the subsequent rules of the inspectors. 

Visiting" Inspectors, 

The visiting inspectors shall attend at the prison, 
together, at least twice in each week, and oftener if 
occasion require ; at which times they shall exam- 
ine into and inspect the management of the prison, 
the conduct of the keeper, deputies, and assistants : 
they shall also carefully enquire into, and report the 
conduct and disposition of the prisoners, and see 
that they are properly and sufficiently employed ; 
that proper attention to cleanliness is observed ; 
that due enquiry be made respecting the health 
of the prisoners, and that their food is served in 
quantity and quality, agreeably to the directions of 
the board ; that the sick are properly provided for, 
and suitable clothing and bedding are furnished to 
ail — they shall hear the grievances of the prisoners, 
receive their petitions, and bring forward the cases of 
such whose conduct and circumstances may appear 
to merit the attention of the board. They shall be 
careful to prevent improper out door communications 
with the prisoners ; that no spirituous liquors be ad= 
mitted on any pretext whatever, except by order of 
the physician. That no intercourse be admitted be-. 



172 JAIL AND PENAL CODS. 

tween the sexes; that the regulations of the board, 
respecting the distribution of the prisoners, accord- 
ing to their characters and circumstances be attended 
to. That proper means be used to promote religious 
and moral improvement, by the introduction oi use- 
ful books, and procuring the performance of divine 
service as often as may be. 

They shall, from time to time, report to the com- 
missioners of the county, all such prisoners who 
have been sent from other counties, and have incur- 
red a charge for their maintenance more than the 
profits of their labour will defray, in order that 
compensation may be had as the law directs. 

They shall cause fair returns to be made out, and 
laid before the board monthly, of all the prisoners, 
their crimes, length of confinement, by whom com- 
mitted, when and how discharged, since the preced- 
ing return. 

They shall attend to the keeper, deputies and 
assistants, by observing their treatment of the pris- 
oners, and suffer no persons addicted t® liquor, mak- 
ing use of profane swearmg or other improper lan- 
guage, to be employed on this duty. 

They shall constantly bear in mind that all men 
are free, until a legal proof is made to the contrary; 
they will therefore take care that no person is held 
in confinement, on bare suspicion of being a run- 
away slave J and those persons who are actually 
slaves, and not applied for by proper claims within 
a limited time, shall be returned to the supreme or 
other proper court, for a habeas corpus to remove 
them according to law ; and, generally, they shall 
see that the present and subsequent directions of 
the board be carried into effect. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 175 



Keeper of the Prison, 

The keeper of the prison, besides attending to the 
safe keeping of the prisoners, shall carefully inspect 
into their moral conduct, shall enjoin a strict at- 
tention to the regulations relative to cleanliness, so- 
briety and industry, and be careful to avoid that 
penalty which is incurred by suffering a criminal to 
escape. He shall also, with the approbation of two 
of the inspectors, provide a sufficient quantity of 
stock and materials, working tools, and implements 
for the constant employment of the prisoners. He 
shall deliver out their work and receive it from 
them by weight or measure, as the case may be, in 
order that embezzlement or waste may be prevented, 
by the prisoners ; and by every laudable means in 
his power make their labour as profitable as possi- 
ble. He shall, as the law directs, keep separate ac- 
counts for all convicts sentenced to labour six 
months and upwards, in which the expense of cloth* 
ing and subsistence shall be charged, and a reason^ 
able allowance for their labour be credited : these 
accounts shall be balanced at short periods, in order 
that the prisoner, at his discharge, may receive the 
proportion, if any, that is due to him. 

He shall cause all accounts concerning the main- 
tenance of the prisoners to be entered in a book 
or books for the purpose, and shall also keep sepa- 
rate accounts of the stock and materials purchased 
by him; shall take proper vouchers whenever money 
is expended ; shall regularly credit the materials 
manufactured and sold, mentioning to whom, and 
when disposed of; and at every quarterly meeting 
of: the board, shall exhibit his accounts and vouchers, 
for their approbation and allowance, 

p 2 



m JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 



Turnkey,^ 

The turnkey shall admit no person, except the in- 
spectors, keeper, his deputies, servants, or assistants, 
officers and ministers of justice, counsellors or attor- 
nies at law, employed by a prisoner, ministers of the 
gospel, or persons producing a written licence, signed 
by two of the said inspectors ; and the latter, only 
in his presence or some one of the officers of the 
prison. He shall prevent the admission of any spiri- 
tuous liquors, or any other improper article to the 
prisoners, and on every attempt of this kind that 
may be detected, he shall make discovery thereof, 
in order that the penalty inflicted by law may be 
recovered. 

Keepers^ Deputies, ^c. 

The keepers, deputies, and assistants shall be 
careful to preserve cleanliness, sobriety and indus- 
try among the prisoners ; to inform them of the rules 
of the house, and to enjoin the observance of them 
by mild yet firm measures ; they shall be careful to 
prevent embezzlement, waste, or destruction of im- 
plements or materials ; they shall constantly reside 
in the house and inspect the conduct and labour of 
the prisoners— report the negligent, profane or dis- 
orderly (who shall be removed) and the industrious, 
quiet and exemplary, that they may be recommend- 
ed by the visiting inspectors, who have it in charge 
to bring such to the favourable notice of the board. 

Watchmen, 

The watchmen shall continue in the prison all 
night, two of whom shall be within the iron gate, 
and two in the inspectors room — they shall patrole 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 175 

the inside constantly, and strike the bell every 
hour — they shall report any remarkable occurrence 
of the night to the clerk of the prison, on the suc- 
ceeding day, who shall commit the same to writings 
and lay it before the visiting inspectors, at their 
next meeting ; and as the safety of the prison so 
much depends on their vigilance and attention, it is 
required that no circumstance shall prevent the 
performance of their regular and frequent rounds. 

Rules y Orders^ and Regulations for the Jail of the 
city and county of Philadelphia, 

1. The males and females shall be employed, and 
shall eat and be lodged in separate apartments, 
and shall have no intercourse or communication 
with each other. 

2. The prisoners shall be constantly employed in 
such labour as the keeper (with the concurrence of 
the inspectors) may consider best adapted to their 
age, sex and circumstances : regard being had to 
that employment which is most profitable. 

3. If any of the prisoners shall be found remiss, 
or negligent, in performing what is required of them, 
to the best of their power and abilities, or shall wil- 
fully waste or damage the goods committed to their 
care, they shall be punished for every such offence, 
as may be hereafter directed. 

4. If any of the prisoners shall refuse to comply 
with these regulations, or to obey the officers of 
the prison, or shall be guilty of profane cursing or 
swearing, or of any indecent behaviour, conversa- 
tion or expression, or of any assault, quarrel^ or abu- 
sive words to, or with any other person, they shall 
be punished for the same, in manner hereafter di- 
rected. 

5. The convicts, prisoners for trial, servants, run- 
aways, and vagrants, shall be separately fed, lodg- 
ed and employed. 



176 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

6. Offenders shall be reported to the inspectors, 
and punished by close solitary confinement, and their 
allowance of food reduced — but in cases where the 
security of the prison is in danger, or personal 
violence ofF-red to any of the officers, then the said offi- 
cers shall use all lawful means to deiend themselves, 
and secure the authors oi such outrage, 

7. No officer or other person shall sell any thing 
used in the prison, nor buy, sell, or barter any arti- 
cle, by which they can have benefit ; neither shall 
they suffer any spirituous or fermented liquors to 
be introduced, except such as the keeper may use in 
his own family, or for medical purposes, prescribed 
by the attending physician, under the penalty of 
five pounds, if an officer, and dismission from office ; 
or if a prisoner, he shall be proceeded against as 
in the seventh article, 

8. The prisoners, on their first admission, shall 
be separately lodged, washed, and cleansed ; and shall 
continue in such separate lodging, until it shall 
be deemed prudent to admit them among the other 
prisoners, and the clothes in which they were com- 
mitted shall be baked, fumigated, and laid by ; to 
be returned them at their discharge ; and during 
their confinement, to be clothed according to law. 

9. Any persons detected in gaming of any kind, 
shall be proceeded against agreeably to the seventh 
article. 

10. Any person who shall demand or exact a 
garnish, beg, steal, or deii-aud, shall be punished as 
directed by the seventh article. 

11. The prisoners who distinguish themselves 
by their attention to cleanliness, sobriety, industry 
and orderly conduct, shall be reported to the inspec- 
tors, and meet with such rewards as is in their 
power to grant or procure for them. 



-JAIL AND PENAL COBE. 177 

12. The prisoners shall be furnished with suitable 
bedding; shall be shaved twice a week; their hair 
cut once a month; change their linen once a week, 
and regularly wash their face and hands every mor- 
ning. 

13. The prison shall be white-washed at least 
twice in the year, and oftener if occasion requires ; 
the floors shall be swept every morning, and wash- 
ed on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from twentieth 
of May to the first of October, and once a week 
for the remainder of the year.^ 

14. The sweepings of the prison shall be collec- 
ted and deposited in a place for the purpose, and 
removed once in every two weeks ; the necessaries 
shall also be cleansed daily. 

15. The yards of the prison shall be kept free 
from cows, hogs, dogs, and fowls* 

16. The physician for the time being, shall keep 
a register of the sick, their disorders, and his pre- 
scriptions ; and shall render his accounts for the 
examination and allowance of the inspectors at each 
of their quarterly meetings. 

17. At the performance of divine worship, all 
the prisoners shall attend, except such as may be 
sick. 

18. The turnkey, deputies, and assistants shall be 
tradesmen, in order that the trades and employments 
within the house, shall be more effectually and pro- 
fitably executed. 

19. All prisoners committed as vagrants, and 
who have been convicts, shall be confined in the 
cells during their commitment. 

20. No provision, other than the prison allow- 
ance, shall be furnished to a convict, or vagrant, 
without the permission of the visiting inspectors. 



* This is now so far attended to, as occasion may require > 



178 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

21. There shall be wardsmen, appointed by the 
visiting inspectors, whose duty it shall be to keep 
the windows, passages, yard, and privies clean, 
and who also shall be lodged and fed in a room by 
themselves. 

22. Run-away or disorderly apprentices, and 
servants, shall be separately fed, lodged, and em- 
ployed, and the keeper shall give notice to their 
masters or mistresses at the time of their commit- 
ment, of the charge that will accrue for their daily 
maintenance, who may at their option agree to 
pay the same, or provide the necessary food them- 
selves. 

23. The charge for the maintenance of slaves, 
shall be the same as that of apprentices or run- 
aways, 

24. No men shall be permitted to visit the wo- 
men's apartments, unless in the company of one or 
more of the inspectors of the prison ; and no wo- 
men shall be permitted to visit any other part of 
the prison than the women's apartments, unless it be 
such as desire to meet with the prisoners in the 
meeting-house on the first day of the week, for the 
purpose of communicating religious instruction. 

25. Such of the convicts as conduct themselves 
properly, and are diligent in their work, and such 
only, may be permitted to be visited by their hus- 
bands or wives, parents or children, once in three 
months, by orders signed by the two visiting in- 
spectors. 

26. In all visits to prisoners, by permission of the 
visiting inspectors, the wooden grated door shall 
be shut ; and all conversation with the prisoners 
shall be through both the grates; a keeper to be in 
the entry, to hear all that passes in such inter- 
views, and the interview shall not be longer than 
fifteen minutes. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 179 

27* The design of the inspectors introducing 
persons to view the interior of the prison, being 
chiefly for strangers whose object may be to intro- 
duce similar institutions elsewhere, or to improve 
them where already established, the inspectors will 
endeavour to discourage any persons from going 
to view the prison merely to gratify idle curiosity, 
as it has a bad effect on the prisoners. 

Description of the Prison and Cells, 

The prison was built in pursuance of an act of the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, passed on the twenty-first 
of October, 1773. The ground originally purchased 
by the commissioners, for the purpose of its erection 
and use, comprehended also the lot occupied by the 
" debtors apartment" in Prune street, and was bought 
partly of the proprietors, Thomas and John Penn, 
and partly of private persons, for the sum of ;f 3,252. 
The whole lot is about two hundred feet on Wal- 
nut street, by four hundred on Sixth street. 

The prison consists of a stone building, front- 
ing Walnut street, about 184 feet in length, and 
about 32 in depth. " It is two stories high, and di- 
vided into rooms of equal dimensions, viz. 20 by 18 
feet ; an entry in the middle, 7^ feet wide, leads 
to a passagelli feet wide, extending the leng.h of 
the building, with stairs and windows at each end : 
the upper story and the cellar are upon the same 
plan; there are eight rooms on each floor, all arched, 
for the two-fold purpose of securing against fire and 
escapes, with two windows to each room. On the 
east and west are two wings, extending ninety feet 
south, two stories high, containing five rooms on the 
floor of each wing, nearly the size of those in front, 
but with one window, and all arched : the ground 
floor of these was formerly the dungeon, but have 



180 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

notbeen used for some years. On the south side is a 
stone bullding,at firstdesigned for a workhouse, where 
the debtors are now confined. Three hundred feet of 
the north part of the lot are appropriated to the use 
of the convict prison, and is divided into portions for 
the accommodation of the different classes of prison- 
ers. Walls, twenty feet high, extendmg to Prune 
street, connect with the east and west wings. 

The prison was designed and built under the direc- 
tion of the late Robert Smith, and is one of the many 
buildings for which Philadelphia is indebted to that 
excellent and faithful architect. It is so effectually fire 
proof internally, the rooms being groin arched, that 
repeated attempts to fire it have failed ; and the ori- 
ginal external rough-casting stands to this day. 

Solitary Cells, 

These are contained in a brick building, of three 
stories, raised on three arches. The cells are sixteen 
in number, their dimensions six feet by eight, and 
nine feet high. Light is admitted by a window at the 
end of the passages, and by a small window placed 
above the reach of the person confined, well secured 
by an iron grate, outside of which is a blind or lou- 
ver, so fixed, as to admit the rays of light, only 
from above ; communication with those outside is 
therefore impossible. A privy, consisting ot a leaden 
pipe, below a brick work, properly constructed in 
one corner of the cell, leads to sewers under ground. 
These may be cleansed at will, by turning a cock fix- 
ed to a leaden pipe from a cistern of water. Stoves 
in winter, are placed in the passages, out of reach of 
the convicts. To each cell there are two doors ; one 
outside of an iron grating, and one inside, of wood, 
which are screwed together every night. In the 
day time the wooden door is left open, to admit ain 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 181 

No conversation between persons confined in these 
cells can take place, except by vociferation, and as 
they would then be heard, and their time of con- 
finement increased, the utmost silence commonly 
prevails, except when they are first put in, and be- 
fore the tranquilizing effects of the cells have had time 
to appear. 

Vagrants, run-away servants, and disorderly per- 
sons, are committed for a term not exceeding thirty 
days, in the same apartment with those for trial, and 
for want of yard room, are necessarily kept at em- 
ployments, which do not pay for the expenses incur- 
red by them. Characters of all descriptions, and all 
degrees of vice are here mixed in one mass, an evil 
that formed one of the most striking defects of the 
old penal code, and that constitutes the only imper- 
fect part of the present system ; but which will be 
remedied, when the new penitentiary on Mulberry 
street, corner of broad street, shall be finished, as the 
objects alluded to may then be profitably employedo 

Effects of the System* 

Such are the remedies which have been prescri- 
bed, in Pennsylvania, for the cure of vice, that great 
moral disease. Their effects, and the theory of their 
action, shall now be briefly noticed. 

The beneficial effects derived from the abolition of 
the system of public and severe punishments, have 
been sensibly felt by the state at large, and especi- 
ally by the city of Philadelphia. The recollection, 
by our own citizens, of the frequent robberies and 
other crimes formerly perpetrated in the capital, and 
the comparatively few committed since the operation 
of the new law, is the best evidence of this position. 

A return from the prison books, would also tend to 
confirm it, although not in so accurate a manner as 

o 



1S2 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

might be expected, owing to the very great influx oi 
inhabitants that has taken place since 1790, especi- 
ally of blacks ; and to the circumstance oi the con- 
victs from the counties, remaining in Philadelphia, 
in preierence to returning to the scenes oi their for- 
mer crimes; for it is well known, that in some of the 
counties, the convicts, for trifling offences, are sen- 
tenced to labour for a term suihciently long to au- 
thorize their being sent to the prison ; and that in 
many cases, they are sentenced in the counties to 
double and threeioldthe term of servitude, to which, 
for similar offences, they would be sentenced in the 
county ot Philadelphia ; this prevents their return- 
ing to their counties alter the expiration of their 
terms of servitude, and except those who are par- 
doned on condition of their leaving the state, they 
generally remain in Philadelphia, and often become 
convicts in ihe county. " With respect tojarcenies and 
burglaries,, it appears that moie persons were tried 
for these offences, while they were capital, than since 
the punishment has been lessened : and if we allow 
for reconvictions, the difference will be much great- 
er."* 

The theory of the action of the means employed 
to prevent, and reform criminals, will serve to illus- 
trate them more clearly. The great causes of vice 
are idleness, intemperance and evil connections, and 
as the system pursued admits of none of these, but 
proceeds upon the principles of industry, sobriety, 
good example, and other cooperating measures; it 
must follow from the very constitution of human na- 
ture, that vmless in the case oi hardened and old of- 
fenders, and such fortunately are all disposed of, that 
salutarv effects must be produced by the opera- 

* Bradford's Inquiry, p. 25. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 183 

tion of the measures adopted. The criminal knows, 
and must be convinced, however unwillin<^ to ac- 
knowledge the fact, that his sentence is justly inflict- 
ed ; the nature of this sentence moreover, assures 
him, that his improvement in morals is the sole ob- 
ject in view, and that vengeance, which some mo- 
dern European statesmen still think "• is the prima- 
ry object of consideration, the foundation of the pe- 
nal law,""^ is no part of its intention : hence those 
angry passions, which the laceration of the body by 
stripes, cropping ears, and pillorinc;, invariably ex- 
cite, are restrained, and the whole discipline of the 
prison is eminently calculated to produce the same 
conviction, to conduct to the same result. Inter- 
course between the sexes, that extensive cause of 
moral contamination, is strictly prohibited ; the diet, 
a powerful agent on the human passions, is moderate 
and wholesome. Ardent spirits, the great source of 
his present punishment, are strictly denied him ; 
idleness, the parent of vice, is substituted by regular, 
constant labour, except during the short time appro- 
priated to meals and during the hours of sleep : and 
silence, which naturally produces reflection and atten- 
tion to duty, is strictly enjoined and enforced. The 
mild, but firm conduct of the keepers, who never car- 
ry weapons, banishes the irritating idea usually attach- 
ed to such characters, and transiorms them into em- 
ployers superintending their workmen ; and lastly the 



* Alexander F. Tytler, now lord Woodhouselee, a lord of 
Sessions in Scotland, has added an appendix to his life of lord 
Kaimes, to prove that " the foundation of criminal law is retribu- 
tive justice; its primary object the accomplishment of justice 
by the proper punishment of crimes. The prevention of crimes," 
he considers, " as a secondary evil. The principle of venge- 
ance," he says, ** is founded injustice, and the resentment which 
the injury excites, ought in every case to be the measure of that 
vengeance." Reformation of the criminal, does not enter into his 
views. 



184 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

religious counsel which is given on the sabbath, seals 
the whole, and proves to them that neither the law 
nor the officers appointed in pursuance of it, have 
any other object in view, than their reformation. The 
criminal therefore, makes his calculation, to conduct 
himself so as to command the good will of the keepers 
and inspectors, and merit recommendation for a dimi- 
nution of his time of servitude. This calculation, which 
all the convicts make, and the justness of which they 
occasionally see exemplified by the enviable reward 
being conferred upon the meritorious,^ is one of the 
most powerful motives to good behaviour that could 
be held out : and if it be doubted whether gratitude 
for mild and kind treatment, has not some effect in 
causing obedience to command, and attention to 
work; facts enough have occurred to shew that they 
are not insensible to the influence of this quality of 
the mind. On one occasion, an inspector states, that 
when roused by the harshness of one keeper to make 
a desperate attempt to escape, they were prevented 
in part from succeeding, by another whom they re- 
spected, throwing himself in the way of the door, 
and whose life would have been sacrificed if they 
had persisted:! and that they are not insensible even 



* Petitions for pardon, or even for shortening the time of ser- 
vitude of a criminal, are made with extreme caution by the in- 
spectors. 

f An accidental visit to the prison by a humane man, former- 
ly a keeper, has occasioned universal joy among- the convicts, 
who came forward to welcome him. In the fever of 17'93, as many 
convicts offered, as were wanted to attend the sick at the city 
hospital. A man committed for burglary for seven years, solici- 
ted, and was appointed deputy steward of the hospital : a robber 
drove the provision cart, during the whole epidemic, and be- 
haved well. They were both pardoned. The women convicts 
gave up their bedsteads for the use of the sick, and even oftered 
their bedding. See TurnbuU's visit to the prison. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 1S5 

to the principles of honour, and of humanity, the 
facts detailed below, with other occurrences, afford 
ample proof. 

The following facts communicated by an inspector, 
are to the same point. 

A convict, by name Jackson, who acknowledged 
himself to be an accomplished villain, and to have 
been in most of the jails of the United States, was 
sentenced to hard labour for several years in Phila- 
delphia. He gave much trouble, and at length escap- 
ed over the wall: he was pursued to Maryland, and 
on his way back, escaped again. Ke was finally ta- 
ken and lodged in the cells, where, full of health, 
and with a mind high toned, he boasted of his reso- 
lution, and of the impossibility of subduing his spirit, 
or of effecting any change in him. But after having 
been confined for some time, an alteration in his de- 
portment became evident, and he took occasion when 
the inspectors were going through the prison, to en- 
ter into conversation with them, and inquired how 
an old comrade* in iniquity, who had long been con- 
fined had obtained release from the cells. The reply 
was, that '' he promised to behave well, and that he 
had been put upon his honour." Would you trust 
mine, he rejoined ? yes, it was said, if he would 
pledge it. He did so, was released, went cheerfully 
to work, and behaved with propriety during the re- 
mainder of his time, and never returned to Pennsyl- 
vania. 

Several states in the Union, have followed the ex- 
ample set by Pennsylvania, with various degrees of 



* This man had been confined for six months in the cells, at 
tlie end of which time, being' completely subdued, was let out 
npon a solemn pledge of g-ood behaviour, and during" the rest of 
his time gave no trouble In this case the mild conversation, and 
serious advice of one of the inspectors powerfully assisted. 

q^2 



186 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

success. The principle however, just as it is, may 
be abused, and the objects in view of course defeated. 
A good system of regulations should at first be esta- 
blished, and afterwards adhered to, with rigid punc- 
tuality : pardons should never be thought of nor any 
diminution of the period of servitude recommended, 
unless after the most thorough conviction of the de- 
sired reformation having well progressed : inspectors 
zealous in the cause, and willing to devote their time 
thereto, should be continued in the direction, to in- 
struct the new members, otherwise impositions will 
be practised ; and to guard against the frailty of 
human nature, no inspector should be permitted to 
supply any article of provision for the convicts, or 
to derive any emolument directly or indirectly from 
the prison. 

The old prison stood at the S. W. corner -of High 
and Third-streets, and extended on High-street 66 
feet, and 204 feet on Third-street, including, on the 
latter street, a yard and work -house. The buildings 
Jmd vfall w^ere pulled down in 1784, by order of the 
supreme executive council of the state, and the 
ground sold to private persons, for building lots. 

Law for Debtors, 

These have undergone frequent alterations. At 
present, they consist of the original act of 1729, 
with sundry supplements extending relief to cases 
not coming within its provisions. 

The basis of the jurisdiction given to the court by 
these acts, is an actual confinement under legal pro- 
cess : with this distinction, that if the debtor be con- 
fined in execution, he may apply immediately for re- 
lief, but if under mesne process, not until he has 
been thirty days in prison. Foreigners must remain 
six months m prison, if under execution for a debt 
above ,^100, 



LAW FOR DEBTORS. 18? 

The supreme court has jurisdiction in all cases 
where the debtor is confined by process from that 
court. The common pleas in cases under its own 
process, or the process of an alderman or justice of 
the peace. 

The mode of proceeding in both courts is nearly 
the same. The debtor applies by petition in term time, 
to either court, accompanying his petition with a 
schedule, on oath or affirmation, of ail his property 
and effects, (wearing apparel, bedding and working- 
tools, not exceeding five pounds in value in the 
whole, excepted) and a list of his creditors, with the 
nature and amount, as near as may be, of their debts. 
The court then appoints a time for hearing him and 
his creditors, of which the debtor is to give each of 
his creditors a notice : in the common pleas, at least 
fifteen days, and in the supreme court, at least ten 
days before the time appointed. The omission to 
give notice to any one of the creditors, however, 
only deprives the debtor of the benefit of the laws in 
respect to that creditor, not as to the others. 

At the time appointed, the court examines into 
the matter of the petition, hearing evidence if requir- 
ed, on the part of either debtor or creditors, or if 
they see cause, may adjourn to a future day, but this 
must be in the next succeeding term. If the court 
be satisfied that the debtor has fairly disclosed and 
surrendered all- his estate, they are directed to dis- 
charge him; if on the other hand there be a " strong 
presumption of fraud," in concealing or fraudulently 
disposing of his property, he is to be remanded to 
prison by a judgment of the court for one year. The 
oath or affirmation required to be taken by the debt- 
or, is in very full and extensive terms, that the ac- 
count delivered to the court, of his estate is just, and 
that since his confinement he has not disposed of it 
in any way, or any part thereof. The court and cre^ 



188 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

ditors being satisfied with his declaration, the court 
orders the property contained in the debtors sche- 
dule to be assigned to one or more of his creditors, 
in trust for the whole, which is done by a short in- 
dorsement on the back of the petition, and signed by 
the debtor, who is then discharged by proclamation, 
in open court. 

The effect of a discharge, thus obtained, is in the 
first place to release him irom custody : and in the 
next place, to exempt him thereafter irom imprison- 
ment for debts owing before his discharge, to credit- 
ors to whom due notice has been given. But it only 
exempts his person. His future acquisitions of pro- 
perty remain liable to execution, as if he had not 
been discharged. 

By other acts of assembly, commonly called the 
bread acts, a provision is made for the support of 
poor debtors who are destitute of the means of sub- 
sistence, which sometimes works a discharge. These 
acts direct the inspectors of the public prison, to ex- 
amine into the condition of the debtors in confine- 
nient, and to make an allowance for food to each of 
such poor debtors as are incapable of maintaining him 
or herself, to be paid weekly by the plaintiff or plain- 
tiffs, at whose suit such debtor is confined, on the 
Monday of every week after ten days printed notice; 
upon failure, by the plaintiff or plaintiffs for the space 
of three days to comply with the requisition, the debt- 
or is entitled to be discharged ; and can never after- 
wards be arrested or imprisoned for the same debt. 
The first act in 1792, fixed the allowance at seven 
cents per day. An act lately passed, authorises the 
courts of common pleas, at the first term in every 
year, to fix the allowance so to be made, at any sum 
not exceeding fourteen cents per day. It is fixed for 
the present year in the city and county of Philadel- 
phia, at twelve and a half cents a day. 



LAW FOR DEBTORS. 189 

Previously to the alteration of the penal law in 1 790, 
debtors and criminals, male and female, were confi- 
ned in the new prison in Walnut-street. But provi- 
sion was at that time made for appropriating the 
" house of correction" in Prune-street, solely to debt- 
ors. The grand jury of the county regularly visits and 
reports the state of the debtors' apartment every three 
months ; and the inspectors of the prison are also 
bound to visit it weekly, and are authorised to make 
the necessary rules and regulations for the govern- 
ment of the house. The following regulations are 
now in force. 

1. The south part of the house shall be for the 
use of the keeper, his family, and assistants, and that 
part of the house north of the division wall, shall be 
allotted for the use of the prisoners. 

2. That the house be washed, once or twice a 
week during the warm weather, and at least once in 
two weeks, or oftener, if the weather permit, during 
winter, and the walls shall be white-washed as often 
as shall be deemed needful for the health of the pri- 
soners. 

3. That the women prisoners shall be kept sepa» 
rate from the men, and at all times the most rigid 
prohibition of any kind of intercourse between them 
and the men prisoners be continued, and no men shall 
be admitted to their apartment, excepting the keeper, 
his assistants, the inspectors, or a physician, in case 
of any of the women being sick. 

4. No woman shall be permitted to go into any 
room where the men are prisoners, excepting the 
mother or wife of one of the prisoners, and not more 
than one such mother or wife at a time, unless in 
case of the sickness of a prisoner, and the physician 
orders a nurse. 

5. No game of address or hazard of any kind 
whatsoever, shall be admitted in the prison on any 



190 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

account ; nor shall any implements of gaming be 
suffered to be in the prison at all. 

6. No kind of wines, spirituous liquors, porter, 
strong beer, nor cyder, nor any kind of drink stron- 
ger than small beer shall be permitted to the prisoners, 
in any quantity whatever, and the price charged to 
the prisoners for such small beer, &c. shall not ex- 
ceed six cents per quart, excepting from this rule 
v/hat a physician shall prescribe for any prisoner in 
case of such prisoner being sick, and then only the 
kind and quantity shall be admitted which is prescri- 
bed for the sick person. 

7. No charge of money, or any equivalent for 
money under the name of Garnish, or any charge of 
the kind shall be suffered to be made in the prison, on 
account of any person lodging in any of the rooms 
allotted for the prisoners. 

8. No prisoner shall be suffered to come without 
the inner gate, unless called by the keeper, or his as- 
sistants, or an inspector. 

9. It shall be the duty of the keeper and his 
assistants, to see that no female remains in the rooms 
where the men are prisoners, after sunset. Also to 
examine every visitor, and see that no kind of liquor 
or drink, prohibited by these rules, be brought into 
the prison. 

10. No visitor shall be permitted to come in, or 
remain in the prison after sunset. And if any person 
shall attempt to introduce into the prison, any kind 
of liquor or drink prohibited by these rules, such 
liquor or drink shall be immediately destroyed, and 
the person who endeavoured to bring it in, shall be 
instantly turned out of doors, and never suffered to 
come in again as a visitor. 

11. That no visitor shall be admitted to the pri- 
son on the first day of the week, called the Sabbath 
day, unless to visit a prisoner who is sick. 



ELECTIONS. 191 

12. If any prisoner behave in a disorderly man- 
ner, and on being reprimanded by the keeper or his 
assistant, or an inspector, does not immediately con- 
duct himselr or herself in a proper and respectful 
manner, such prisoner shall be confined separately 
from the rest, m a room appropriated for that pur- 
pose. 

The keeper of the debtor's apartment is appointed 
by the sheriff : his salary is ^500. 

Elections, 

The election for civil officers, takes place on the 
second Tuesday of October throughout the state. 
On the Friday next preceding the first Tuesday in 
October, the constables of the several wards, hav- 
ing given previous public notice of the time and 
places, hold elections for inspectors of elections. 
Return is made by the constables to the sheriff of 
the city and county, and a duplicate to the person 
chosen ; the inspectors assemble at nine o'clock in 
the forenoon of the day of election, and choose judges 
of the election, who lorm a return of the whole elec- 
tion of the city and county, and deliver said return to 
the sheriff; a duplicate of which, signed and sealed 
in the same manner, is deposited in the office of the 
prothonatory of the city and county. The sheriff is 
required to transmit said return within thirty days to 
the governor, who thereupon, (in case of representa- 
tives to congress) declares by proclamation, the names 
of the persons returned to him as duly elected ; but 
in the case of the election of members of the legisla- 
ture, the certificate of the judges of the election to 
the individual chosen is sufficient. Judges, inspec- 
tors, and clerks of elections, are sworn or affirmed, to 
insure an impartial discharge of their duties, before 
entering thereon. 



192 ELECTIONS. 

By the constitution of the state, "every free man, 
of the age oi twenty-two years, having resided in the 
state t\yo years next before the election, and within 
that time paid a state or county tax, which shall have 
been assessed at least six months before the election, 
shall enjoy the rights of an elector ; sons of quali- 
fied persons as aforesaid, between the ages of twenty- 
one and twenty-two years, shall be entitled to vote, 
although they shall not have paid taxes." 

The following officers are chosen by the city, 
county, and district. 

1. The city and county of Philadelphia, and coun- 
ty of Delaware, constitute one district, and elect three 
members of the house of representatives in the con- 
gress of United States. 

2. The city and county of Philadelphia, elect two 
representatives in the senate of the state legislature, 
one county commissioner, one sheriff, and one coro- 
ner, for three years j and three auditors.^* 

3. The city elects five representatives in the state 
legislature, four persons as members of the select 
council, and twenty persons to compose the common 
council. 

4. The county of Philadelphia, elects six represen- 
tatives in the state legislature. The two persons, 
having the highest number of votes, for sheriff and 
coroner, are returned ; either of whom may be ap- 
pointed by the governor. The constitution prohibits 
any person from being twice chosen sheriff in any 
term of six years. 

Senators are chosen for four years. 
The constitution provides that all elections by the 
people shall be by ballot. 



* These auditors examine the accounts of the county commis- 
sioners ; and of the county treasurer and sheriff, for the current 

%^ear. 



REVENUE. 193 

Ail elections are free and voluntary, and any elec- 
tor who shall receive any gift or reward for his vote, 
in meat, drink, money or otherwise, forfeits his right 
to elect for that time, and shall pay any sum not ex- 
ceeding fifty dollars, and suffer imprisonment for 
a time not exceeding six months, as the court of the 
county shall think proper to award. It may with 
truth be said, that although our suffrage is universal, 
no other influence is exerted except that of persua- 
sion ; the measure adopted by the friends of the can- 
didates for office in other countries, and in some 
of the United States, of keeping open house during 
an election, is unknown in Philadelphia, and it is be- 
lieved, throughout the state. 

Revenue and Expenditure, 

The permanent revenue of Philadelphia, which is 
appropriated to city purposes, is derived from the 
following sources. 

1. Rent of stalls in the public markets in High 
street and Second street : of the cellar under the 
city hall : of lots, and a house on the west side of 
Schuylkill : of the public scales : of public wharves; 
and of vacant pubbc squares. 

2. Oi stock in the Schuylkill permanent bridge, at 
the west end of High street ; and public stock. 

3. From the use of the Schuylkill water. 

4. From whariage on the public landings, on Del- 
aware and Schuylkill. 

5. From shares in the water loan. 

6. Sales of street dirt, and paving over private wa- 
ter pipes. 

7. Taxes — Besides the foregoing, occasional re- 
venue arises irom Mayor's fines and penalties ; F„nd 
from lighting private lamps, which in 1809, amount- 
ed to ^224 56 



194 liEVENUE. ; 

In 1809, the following expenses were incurred. 

1. Purchase of paving stones, and paving ^19,187 194- 

2. Repairing unpaved streets . 2,084 45i 

3. Cleansing the city generally, . 8,219 98^ 

4. Repairing and cleansing docks and sewers, 709 56 

5. Lighting and watching the city, 19,025 66 

6. Pumps and wells, . . 3,007 11 

7. Regulating ascents and descents of 1 

streets, J 

8. Salaries to the officers of the corporation, 9,450 

9. Office expenses oi the city commissioners, 102 40 

10. Menial services in the markets, 420 

11. Incidental expenses of councils, 231 10 

12. Constables for keeping order onl 
sabbaths, and attending mayor's J- 434 
court, J 

13. Repairing over water pipes, 153 97 

14. Repairs and improvements of the "J aAnf\ 1 ^« 
city property, J" ^'"^^^^ ^^^ 

15. One year's interest on water and") ^ ^.^ 
city loans, j ^'^42 

1 6. Repairs and improvements at wa- ") j ^ ^^^ 
ter works, laying pipes, &c. J ' 

17. Making culverts, . . 14,652 30 

18. Contingent expenses authorized") .^. .„ 
by councils, j 

!S124,865 55 
The appropriations for the foregoing purposes, 
for the year 1811, amount to ^133,000 

From the report of committee of the select coun- 
cil on the revenue of the last year, it appears, that the 
actual expenditure for the several objects for which 
appropriations had been made in 1810, amounted on 
the 31st December last, to , §125^600 38 



SINKING FUND. 195 

That the debts owing on the same 
account amounted to . . 4''^,930 79 

That the interest on the temporary 
loans amounted to . . 966 57 

That there is to be paid to the tax 
fund of the year 1810, tKis sum bor- 
rowed from it by an ordinance of the 
16th July, . . . 2,000 

Debts 'owing, . . 1,178 72 

El67,676 46 
Amount of taxes, rental and loans, 147,67 46 



Leaving an actual deficiency of 
funds amounting to . . ^20,000 

Borrowed by ordinances of councils 
in 1810, . . . 30,000 



Amount of expenditure beyond re- 
venue, . . . ^50,000 

Of the above sum, Sl4,000 were borrowed to erect 
the market-house in High-street, an object which by 
increasing the income of the corporate estate, fur- 
nishes the means of reimbursing the cost : one 
loan of ^25,000, constituting a part of the above 
g50,000 has been paid off. 

Siriklng Fund, 

In 1807 the debt of the city, arising chiefly from 
the expense of the water works amounted to 310,000 
dollars, which was payable at different dates, at the 
pleasure of the corporation. About ^50,000 were due 
to the banks. In order to reduce this debt, councils 
resolved in the above year, to borrow ^50,000, which 
was not redeemable before 1830: this sum was pro- 
cured at 2 1-2 per cent, under par, and was applied 



196 TAXES. 

to pay the banks. The profit of 2 1-2 per cent, toge- 
ther with ^5,000 arising out of the annual income of 
the corporate estates of the city, were constituted a 
fund, to be stiled " the sinking fund," to be applied 
to the purchase and redemption of the several species 
of stock, constituting the iundeddebt of the city. 

This fund is directed to be invested by the treasu- 
rer, with the approbation of the mayor, in the six 
per cent stock of the United States, until it shall 
amount to a sum sufficient to pay off a whole loan, 
when it is to be sold, and the proceeds thereof, ap- 
plied to the payment of such loan, and the certifi- 
cates, or other evidences of the loan so paid, are to 
be transferred to, and become part of the sinking 
fund. 

During the last year, 1810, the wants of the city 
obliged councils to borrow ^50,000 more, as already 
stated ; and to prevent the postponement of the redemp- 
tion, they resolved to apply ^2,000, in addition to the 
sinking fund ; by which measure, notwithstanding 
the late increase of debt, the redemption will take place 
even before the contemplated period of final extinc- 
tion. The sinking fund now amounts to j^3 1,000 and 
upwards. 

Taxes — Modes of Assessing, 

The system of taxation pursued in Philadelphia, is 
the same with that of the state at large, and was es- 
tablished by an act of the legislature, passed in the 
year 1799. 

Every third year, one or more assessors are cho- 
sen by the people at the general election in October, 
who, for the faithful performance of their duty, are 
required to take an oath or affirmation, before a ma- 
gistrate or judge, and to file a certified copy of the 
same in the office of the county commissioners : and 



- TAXES. 197 

on receipt of precepts issued by the said commission- 
ers, are to proceed to take an account of the 
names of all taxable inhabitants within their town- 
ships, wards, or districts; and of all lands, houses, 
mills, manufactories, improvements of every kind, 
ground rents, all negro and mulatto slaves, all cattle 
above four years old ; all offices and posts ol profitj 
trades and occupations, (ministers of the gospel and 
school-masters only excepted) and all single free 
men above the age of twenty-one years, who do not 
follow any occupation. The enumeration having been 
made, the assessors are to assemble, and value the 
aforesaid property, for what they think it will bona 
fide sell for in ready money : and rate the profits of 
all offices and occupations at their discretion ; but no 
tax shall exceed the rate of one cent in every dollar 
of the adjusted valuation of the property: and the 
rate for any occupation, or for any single freeman, 
shall not exceed ten dollars in one year. 

The assessors return the names of two reputable 
citizens, freeholders, of the ward or district, to the 
commissioners, who are required to appoint one of 
them to be the collector, by whom the citizens are 
notified of the rate at which they have been assessed, 
and of the day of appeal before the commissioners. 
This regulation gives an opportunity for redress, in 
case of the assessment having been made too high. 
These appeals being over, the collection goes on, and 
the money as fast as collected, is paid into the hands 
of the city or county treasurers. Provision is made for 
compelling payment ; for delinquency of collectors ; 
compensation to them ; and the settlement and pub- 
lication of accounts. In Philadelphia, the city com- 
missioners, board of health, and guardians of the 
poor, appoint their own collectors. 

The following taxes are annually collected in the 
city of Philadelphia. Their amount is for 1810. 

R 2 



198 TAXES. 

City and Personal — Appropriated to city pur- 
poses,' .... ^103,637 50 

County — Appropriated to county purposes, 

$74,541 42 

Health — Appropriated to the expense of the La- 
zaretto, and health establishment. It must never ex- 
ceed ^40,000 . . . ^20,000 

Poor — For the support of the poor, ^78,000 

These two last taxes are assessed on the city and 
county jointly. 

The monies collected in the city are paid to the 
*' city treasurer," an officer who is annually appointed 
by the select and common councils in joint meeting. 
His duty is to make out a rental of the real estate 
of the city, to receive all the monies of the corpora- 
tion, and to make out an account of all his receipts 
and expenditures every three months, for the use of 
the mayor and councils. The accounts of the money 
arising from the city estate, are to be kept separate 
from that received for taxes : and the monies re- 
ceived by him are to be kept in bank, in his name, as 
treasurer. He is required to give bond with two 
sureties to the amount of ^16,000 for the faithful 
performance of his duty. His compensation is one 
per cent, upon all monies received by him. A full 
statement of his accounts is annually laid before the 
city councils and published. The office is at present • 
very ably filled by Mr. G A. Baker. 

The county taxes are paid into the hands of the 
county treasurer, an officer who is appointed by the 
county commissioners, and changed triennially. His 
compensation is one and a quarter per cent, upon all 
monies received. No money is paid by him, except 
upon the orders of the county commissioners. The 
following is the account of expenditures by the couil- 
ty commissioners during the year 1810. 



RELlCilOUS SOCIETIES. 



199 



Public Landings, N. Liberties 

Criminal department . • 

Debtor's department . • 

Bridges and causeways, 

Public roads 

Attorney-general, clerks of courts, 

rees, jurors, 
Sheriff expenses over his receipts 
Pubic schools 
Coroner's Zees . 

Militia exempt fines 
Assessing county tax 
Commissioners and clerks 
Election expenses 
Contingents t 



} 



Sl,912 8 
469 6 

1,228 33 
36,166 90 

7,259 51 

10,849 18 

1,616 27 
7,724 81 
1,279 54 
60 74 
1,539 53 
2,966 66 
919 91 
1,939 51 



Total . ^74,215 76 

The treasurers of the " Board of Health," and of 

the " Guardians of the Poor," receive the proceeds 

of the health, and poor taxes, and disburse them 

agreeably to the orders of their respective boards. 

Religious Societies. — Swedes, 

As already mentioned, the first church built on 
the west side of the Delaware, was on Tinnicum 
island, by the Swedes, and consecrated September 
4th, 1646. Their increasing numbers from emigra- 
tion, and natural causes, and the extension of their 
settlement, up the Delaware, and Schuylkill, requi- 
ring in a few years, a more convenient and central 
place of worship, a block house was erected on the 
shore of the Delaware, near to where the present 
Swedish church stands, in Southwark, and was con- 
secrated in the summer of 1677. By that time, the 
Swedes had settled as far up as Pennipeck, and Ne- 



§0& RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

shaminy, the falls of Schuylkill, and through the 
penmsula or neck, below where Philadelphia now 
stands, in Wicocoa, Moyamensing, and Passajung, 
in all about twenty families. The present Swedish 
church was consecrated 2d July, 1700, and for ma- 
ny years, was the only place of worship for the fo- 
reign emigrants, on both sides of the Delaware and 
Schuylkill. For nearly fifty years, divine worship 
was performed in the Swedish language. The pre» 
sent minister is the learned and Rev. Dr. N. Collin. 

The Swedes have also a church in Kingsessing,, 
about six miles from the city, and one in Merion 
township, Philadelphia county, of both which Dr« 
Collin is rector. 

^lakers. 

The first meetings of the society of Friends, were 
held at the house of Thomas Fairlamb, at Shaka- 
mexunk,now called Kensington, in 1681. In 1682, a 
frame buildingwas erected for the purpose, at the Cen- 
tre Square. In the same year regular meetings were 
held at Darby. In 1698, a meeting house was built 
at the S. W. corner of Second and High-streets, 
which was pulled down in 1755, and another one 
erected, 75 feet by 55j and 30 high, with galleries, 
and held 1500 persons. It was pulled down in I8O85 
the ground sold, and the present houses erected. 

At present, there are three places of worship be- 
longing to this society in Philadelphia. 

Free fakers* 

A party of the society of Friends, who differed 
from the general society, chiefly in thinking it law- 
ful to take up arms in defence of American liberty^ 



REUGIOUS SOCIETIES. 201 

and in affirming allegiance to the United States, sepa- 
rated from the main body of Friends, about the year 
1776. By the help of a general contribution of the 
citizens, they erected a place of worship, in 1783, at 
the corner of Fifth and Mulberry streets. It is 48 by 
36 feet, and two stories high. 

This society is styled " Whig, or Free Quakers." 
They profess the principles of quakerism, except in 
discipline. They allow their members to think and 
act for themselves, and inflict no censures, appre- 
hending it to be sufficient that they are amenable to 
the laws of the country. 

^ Episcopal Churches, 

It appears from Thomas's brief account of Penn- 
sylvania,^ that the Episcopalians had a church, or 
place of worship of some kind, in Philadelphia, so 
early as 1698. At present there are four churches i 
Christ Church, St. Peter's and St. James's, and St. 
Pauls. The three first are united in one act of incor- 
poration, and governed by one vestry. St. Paul's is 
regulated by its own vestry. 

The ministry in the said united churches has been 
as follows. 

The earliest settled minister of Christ church, and 
while the former building stood, was the Rev. Evan 
Evans, who was sent over by the bishop of London, 
in 1700; and by whose labours the first episcopal 
congregations in Pennsylvania are supposed to have 
been formed. King William allowed him £50 ster- 
ling, a year.f Mr. Evans appears to have been in 
England in the year 1707, and to have been then 



* London, 1698. l2mo. 
f Humphrey's Hist. Account of the society for propagating the 
gospel: p. 146. 



202 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

complimented with the degree of doctor in divinity, 
because of his exertions in America, and especially 
among the settlers from Wales. He returned to the 
province : but in the year 1718, he removed to Ma- 
ryland ; being presented by the governor of that pro- 
vince to the living of St. George's parish, then in the 
county of Baltimore, and now in that oi Harford. 

After the removal of Dr. Evans, there was no 
stationary minister ; until the Rev. Mr. Vicary was 
sent over by the bishop of London, in 1719. His con- 
nexion with the congregation v/as dissolved inl7'23j 
when they were again without a supply, until the ar- 
rival of the Rev. Archibald Cummings, who was sent 
by the bishop of London, in 1726. 

In 1742, the Rev. Mr. Cummings being deceased, 
the Rev. Dr. Robert Jenney arrived from Eng- 
land, under an appointment from the bishop of 
London ; and the Rev. Amos Ross, who had offici- 
ated from the time of the death of the former in- 
cumbent, was appointed assistant minister, but re- 
signed his place in the next year. 

In 1746, the Rev. William Sturgeon was settled aS 
assistant minister to Dr. Jenney. 

In 1759, the principal minister being disabled from 
officiating, by age and infirmities, another assistant 
minister was chosen, the Rev. Jacob Duche. 

In 1765, St. Peter's church being then built, the 
two churches received from the proprietaries of 
Pennsylvania, a charter of incorporation, by which 
they are contemplated as one body, with the same 
rector and vestry. 

After the decease of Di% Jenney, in 1758, the du- 
ties of the churches were discharged by the assistant 
ministers only, until the year 1762, when the Rev. 
Richard Peters was chosen rector ; this being the 
title annexed to the station of minister, and recog-' 
nised by the, charter of incorporation. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. SOS 

In the year 1772^ the Rev. Thomas Coombe and 
the Rev. William White were chosen assistant mi- 
nisters. Mr. Stm^geon, one of these already mention- 
ed, having departed this life not long beiore. 

On the decease of the Rev. Dr. Peters, in the 
year 1775, the Rev. Jacob Duche was chosen rec- 
tor, who retired from this country to England, to- 
wards the close of the following year. In the year 
1778, the Rev. Mr. Coombe also retired to England. 

In the year 1779, the Rev. William White was 
chosen rector. The Rev. Robert Blackwell was cho- 
sen assistant minister, in 1780. The Rev. Joseph G. 
Bend was also chosen an assistant in 1788; and, re- 
signing his charge, removed to Baltimore in 1791. 
After which, the Rev. James Abercrombie was cho- 
sen in 1794. 

In the year 1810, the charter of incorporation was 
enlarged by the legislaeJ^^e of Pennsylvania, so as to 
comprehend the new church of St. James. The 
yearly vakie of the real estate of the three churches, 
is not to exceed six thousand dollars. 

The episcopal churches in the United States, hold 
the same faith as the church of England, with the ex- 
ception of the Athanasian creed. The thirty-nine arti- 
cles, with accommodation to the local circumstances 
of this country, were recognised as the faith of the 
said church by the convention of the clergy and laity 
that met in Philadelphia in September, 1801. The 
book of common prayer, which is now the standard 
for the church in the United States, was established 
in the autumn of 1 789. It had been previously propo- 
sed by a convention of the church, in seven states, in 
1785. At the former date, there were also sanction- 
ed the book of psalms in metre, with twenty-seven 
hymns; to which thirty more were added by the con- 
vention of 1808. The service for the institution of 
mmisters into churches or parishes, was established 



204 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

at the same time. The book oi consecration and 
ordination of bishops, priests and deacons, was esta- 
blished by the convention of 1792. The form of the 
consecration of a church was established by the con- 
vention of 1799.=^ 

When application was made to the prelates of Eng- 
land for ordination of the divines, who had been re- 
commended by the American convention of clergy- 
men and laity, in 1785 ; an act of parliament was ap- 
plied for and granted, to empower them to consecrate 
bishops beyond the seas, without their taking the 
usual oaths. Accordingly, the Rev. Dr. White, of 
Pennsylvania, and the Rev. Dr. Prevost, of New 
York, were ordained on the 4th of February, 1787, 
by ihe archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Moore ; assist- 
ed by the archbishop of York, and bishops of Bath 
and "V^'^ells, and bishop of Peterborough. 

Baptists, 

The first sett'ers of the Baptist persuasion who 
arrived in PhiLtdelphia, came from Radnorshire in 
England, and Killitrncy in Ireland, about the year 
1686, and settled on the banks of Pennipeck creek, 
ten miles N. E. of Philadelphia. The Rev. Mr. Don- 
gan from Rhode Island, had settled two years be- 
fore, at Coldspring, above Bristol, on the Delaware, 
where he gathered a church, the grave yard of 
which alone now remains. He baptized and or- 
dained Elias Keach, an English youth, who settled 
at Pennipeck. In the year 1686, Mr, John Watts 
came to Philadelph?a, from the county Oi Kent, Eng- 
land, and was baptized at Pennipeck, the next 
year. In 1698, nine persons assembled in Philadel- 
phia and "did coalesce into a church for the commu- 

* See Plowman and Tanner's elegant edition of the Book of 
Common Prayer. Philadelphia, 1805, 



RELIGIOUS SOCtETIESo 205 

nion of saints, having the Rev. John Watts to their 
assistance." The place where they met was the N. We 
corner of Second-street and Chesnut-street, in a 
frame store house, buih by the Barbadoes trading 
company, on a lot owned by them. Hence it was 
known by the name of " Barbadoes lot." The Pres- 
byterians also w^orshipped with them, until they " in a 
manner drove the Baptists away."* They then held 
worship in the brew house of Anthony Morris, near 
the draw -bridge, until 1707, when by invitation of a 
sect composed of seceders from the Quakers, under 
George Keith, they removed their worship to a 
house erected upon the site of their present building 
in Second near Mulberry-street. At present they are 
a numerous congregation. Their faith and order may 
be seen in the " confession, catechism and treatise of 
discipline," which they adopted in their association 
held at Philadelphia in the year 1742. By these it ap- 
pears that they are " Independents with reference to 
church government, and Calvinists with respect to 
doctrines ;"f with this exception, that they deem it 
essential in the ordinance of baptism, to immerse the 
body in water, and not to periorm this cejremony of 
admittance into the visible church, unless the sub- 
ject is a professed believer, and has arrived at the 
years of discretion, or is able to comprehend its 
meaning and force. The place for performing the 
operation of immersion, is in the Schuylkill, at the 
bottom of Spruce-street. 



* Edwards says that " the Presbyterians then began to dis- 
cover an unwillingness that Baptist ministers should preach in 
the house," and having- evaded a conference, appointed on the 
subject, the Baptists resolved to meet apart until they received 
au answer. — Morgan Edwards's Materials towards a history o^ 
the American^ Baptists. Philadelphia, 1770. p. 45 — 108. 

f Edwards'^ Materials, &c. p. 6. 

S 



206 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

It is computed, that in North America, there are 
2000 Baptist churches, and 150,000 communicants. 

The regularly settled baptist ministers in succes- 
sion, have been, since 1746, Jenkins Jones, 1746 to 
1761 ; Ebenezer Kinnersly, 1743 to 1754; Morgan 
Edwards, 1761 to 1771 ; William Rogers, Thomas 
Ustick, William Staughton. 

Presbyterians* 

About April, 1695, the Rev. John Watts, the 
Baptist minister at Pennepack, consented, at the re- 
quest of some friends, to preach at Philadelphia, 
every other Lord's day. Among the inhabitants, 
there were, at that time, some Baptists and Indepen- 
dents (the latter were also denominated Presbyte- 
rians,) both of whom were occasionally visited by 
ministers of their respective denominations : and 
they occupied in common, for the purpose of wor- 
ship, the store house of the Barbadoes company. In 
the autumn of 1698, the Rev. Jedediah Andrews, 
came from New England to Philadelphia, and offi- 
ciated as an Independent minister. The Indepen- 
dents had by this time, increased in numbers, and 
after the removal of the Baptists, continued to meet 
at the house on Barbadoes lot, until they procured ano- 
ther in High-street, where they erected a small house 
for worship in 1704, xvhich was enlarged in 1729^ 
about which time they adopted the presbyterial form 
of government. A part of them who adopted the pe- 
culiar tenets of the eloquent Whitfield, withdrew in 
1742, and occupied the house in Fourth, near Mul- 
berry-street, which had been recently erected by the 
friends of that preacher, and there they remained until 
the year 1750, when they founded the second pres- 
byterian church at the N. W. corner of Arch and 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIEe. 205^ 

Third-Streets. Their declared principles are set forth 
in " the constitution of the presbyter ian church in the 
United States of America." They have expressed 
themselves in a very liberal manner about church go- 
vernment. " It is absolutely necessary," say they, 
" that the government of the church, be under some 
certain definite form, and we hold it to be expedient, 
and agreeable to scripture, and the practice of the 
primitive christians, that the church be governed by 
congregational, presbyterial, and synodical assem- 
blies. In full consistency with this belief, we em- 
brace, in the spirit of charity, those christians who 
differ from us in opinion or practice on these sub- 
jects." Baptists are accordingly sometimes employed 
by them to preach. Watts's psalms, improved by Bar- 
low, are generally used in their churches. 

The general assembly of the Presbyterian church, 
meets annually in May, in Philadelphia, and publisft 
their proceedings. 

Catholics* 

Previously to the year 1733, the few Catholics who 
then resided in Philadelphia, held meetings for reli- 
gious v/orship in a private dwelling, and were occa- 
sionally visited by ministers from the catholic colony 
of Maryland, who were regularly appointed by the 
Pope. In the year just mentioned, the Rev. Mr. Cray- 
ton, was formally commissioned by the proper au- 
thority in Maryland, to settle in Philadelphia ; and by 
him a lot was purchased near Fourth-street, and 
south of Walnut-street, and a small chapel erected, of 
one story. It was dedicated to St. Joseph, and after- 
wards enlarged as the society increased in numbers. 
There are now four chapels in Philadelphia, audit is 
computed that there are fifteen thousand members in 
the city and suburbs. The ministers in succession, after 



208 BELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Mr. Crayton, were Messrs. Lewis, Harding, FarmcF, 
Fleming, and others. The present bishop is the Rev. 
Mr. Egan, who was consecrated at Baltimore, in 1810. 

German Lutherans, 

The German Lutherans settled early in the last 
century in the lower parts of the state of Delaware, 
under the Swedes, while the reformed church was 
established in New York, on Hudson's river, under 
the Dutch. The first Lutheran church in Philadel- 
phia, was erected in 1743, in Fifth-street, above 
Mulberry-street. 

The articles of faith in this church are contained in 
the unaltered Augsburgh confession : in the doctrine 
of the Lord's supper, it professes to adhere strictly 
to the very original words of our Saviour, in the in- 
stitution of the sacrament. 

The ministers in succession have been, H. Muhlen- 
berg, Brunholz, Heinzleman, Handschuh, Schulze, 
Kunze, H. Muhlenberg, jun. Helmuth, Schmidt. 

Until a few years since, divine service was perfor- 
med in the German language ; when in consequence 
of the increase in number of the descendants of the 
Germans who did not learn to speak the language of 
their parents, an attempt was made to have divine 
service performed at least one half of the sabbath in 
the English language, but this having been resisted, a 
large party withdrew, and erected the elegant church 
of St. John, in Race-street, in which the service is 
performed altogether in the English language. 

German Calvinists, 

These came from Germany nearly about the same 
time as the Lutherans, and both usually held their 
meetings for religious purposes in the same house in 
Pennsylvania : there being very little difference be- 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 2Q9 

tween the doctrines maintained by them. In the year 
1743, the Calvinists built a church in Sassafras- 
street, which was pulled down, when the present one 
was erected. They adhere to the Hiedelbergh cate- 
chism, and the confession of faith of the reformed 
Dutch church. They observe holidays, and have or- 
gans in their churches. They practise confirmation 
of their young people, to whom they dispense the 
Lord's supper. There are two congregations in Phi- 
ladelphia : in one of which the service is performed 
in the German language, and in the other (recently 
erected) in English. The latter is styled the " Evan- 
gelical Church." The Rev. Mr. Helfenstein, is the 
minister of the Dutch, and the Rev. Mr. Birch, the 
pastor of the English congregation, 

Moravians^, or United Brethren* 

The first congregation of this amiable sect that 
settled in North America, came from Berthelsdorf, 
a village belonging to count Zinzendorf, in upper 
Luzatia* When expelled from the dominions of the 
elector of Saxony, they resolved to go to America, 
and the trustees of the colony of Georgia, having 
offered, through the count, to grant them a tract of 
land, they set out in November, 1734. 

The written instructions given to them by the 
count, were, " that they should submit themselves to 
the wise direction and guidance of God in all circum- 
stances ; seek to preserve liberty of conscience ; avoid 
all religious disputes, and always keep in view that: 
call, given to them by God himself, to preach the 
gospel of Jesus Christ to the heathen ; and iurther,, 
that they should endeavour as much as possible to.earn 
their own hread,^"* These principles they have evei: 
strictly followed. 



210 REUGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Having met in London with general Oglethorpe, 
the governor of Georgia, they were provided with all 
the necessaries for their voyage to his beloved colo- 
ny, where they safely arrived in 1735, and settled on 
the Ogeeche river : here they obtained the character 
which they so justly deserved, of a peaceful, pious 
people. Another colony arrived in the course of the 
following summer, and settled in Savannah. But in 
the year 1738, upon the attack of the colony by the 
Spaniards from Florida, they were forced to leave 
their flourishing plantations, (having early declared 
that they would not be concerned in war) and retired 
to Pennsylvania: part came in 1738, and the remain- 
der in 1740. They settled at Bethlehem. In 1741, 
count Zinzendorf arrived in Pennsylvania, and after 
much pious labour, particularly among the Indians, 
returned to Europe in 1743. In 1742, the brethren 
erected a church in Philadelphia, in an alley running 
north and south from Mulberry-street to Sassafras- 
street, between Second and Third-streets, and hence 
called Moravian alley. The church is 40 feet by 
30 feet, and will hold about 300 persons. It has 
an organ. 

The principles of the Moravians, are contained in 
" an exposition of christian doctrine, as taught in 
the protestant church of the United Brethren, or Uni- 
tas Fratrum, by A. G. Spangenburg, with a preface 
by Benjamin La Trobe." They do not differ in the 
great cardinal points from other protestant sects. 
They hold occasional " love feasts" in their churches, 
for the purpose of promoting friendship, mutual 
love and kindness among one another. The aliment 
is of the most simple nature. Wine is indeed some- 
times used, but with the most rigid attention to 
temperance. They deem the propagation among the 
heathen, of the means of salvation by the Redeemer, 
a primary object of duty j ^nd their zeal in this res- 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 211 

pect, Is truly astonishing. Every part of the globe 
has been visited — nay, settled by their missionaries ; 
even the inhospitable shores of Greenland and Labra- 
dor ; and the most unhealthy climates of Africa and 
Asia have received the benefit of their pious labours t 
the frontiers of North America, which even at the 
present moment are the hunting ground of the sava- 
ges, were settled by them more than half a century 
ago, by a colony under that V' nerable apostle, the late 
Rev. Mr. Zeisberger, and others. No danger however 
great, no privations, or personal sufferings, however 
severe, deterred them from steadily pursuing their 
benevolent designs : and although the horrors of a 
predatory war carried on against the inoffensive con- 
verts from heathen darkness, by men who disgraced 
the name of Christians, often interrupted the tranqui- 
lity of their settlements, and occasioned their perse- 
cution ; yet they availed themselves of the first oppor- 
tunity to recommence their labours, and have joyful- 
ly seen their example followed by other denomina- 
tions of Christians. 

The members of this society are few in number, in 
Philadelphia, when compared with those of other 
sects. The head of their government is Hernhutt, in 
Germany ; the subordinate power of their church, 
bishop Loskiel, resides at Bethlehem, in Pennsylva- 
nia.* 

Associate Churchy 

Is composed of those who are commonly denomi- 
nated seceders, which name was given to, or assu- 



* For a full account of the labours of the Moravians in North 
America, see " the history of the mission of the Unitas Fratrum 
among the Indians of North America, by the Rev. Mr. Loskiel^ 
London, 1794." 



212 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

med by those ministers, who were expelled from the 
church of Scotland about the year 1722, for having 
testified against some of the public evils of the na- 
tional church, particularly the settlement of ministers 
by patronage. Sundry persons of this communion, 
having emigrated to America, and with some others, 
being dissatisfied with the Presbyterian judicatories 
in America, made application to the associate synod 
of Edinburgh, for a supply of ministers. Two were 
accordingly sent, in 1754, and with ruling elders, 
constituted the " Associate Presbytery of Pennsylva- 
nia." The principles and form of government of the 
associate church, are those of the Presbyterian per- 
suasion. There is only one congregation of this so- 
ciety in Philadelphia, and this is vacant. The late 
Rev. Mr. Marshall was the minister. They belong 
to the party known in Scotland by the name Anti- 
burgers, 

Associate Reformed Churchy 

Was formed in 1 782, by a union between sundry 
ministers of the "Associate Presbytery," and others 
known by the name of *' Covenanters," and who 
were of the same principles with those who take on 
that designation in Scotland. The members of the 
associate synod, who w^ere opposed to the union, be- 
ing in the minority, were denied the permission to 
enter their protest, they therefore withdrew and ap- 
pealed to the associate synod in Scotland, by whom 
the conduct of the minority was approved, but the 
members of the two presbyteries who formed the 
imion, denounced the minority as schismatics, and 
assuming the name of the " Associate Reformed 
Church in North America," published in 1799, their 
constitution and standards, with sundry appendixes,, 
aot comprised in the terms of their communion* 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 213 

Their faith does not differ from that of the general 
assembly of the Presbyterian church. The former de- 
nominations of which this body was originally com- 
posed, being still in existence, they may be said to 
have formed a new church. There is only one con- 
gregation of this society in Philadelphia. 

Presbyterian Covenanters^ or Reformed Presbytery^ 

This society was formed in Scotland, about the year 
17^44, by a member of the " Associate Presbytery of 
Scotland," who, notwithstanding the alteration of cir- 
cumstances, did not render an adoption of the mea- 
sure necessary, required that body to swear the na- 
tional league and covenant," in the very words in 
which they were originally framed one hundred years 
betore; their refusal to do so, together with their cen- 
sure of the principles of a party who denied alle- 
giance to the civil government of the country, be- 
cause certain religious qualifications, were in their 
opinions, necessary to insure due respect to the autho- 
rity of rulers, induced him to withdraw, and to as- 
sociate with others, under the name ot the " Reform- 
ed Presbytery." They profess to be the only true fol- 
lowers of the martyrs who suffered for conscience 
sake, under the intolerant reign of Charles the Ilnd. 
and James. This society consists at present of only 
six or seven ministers, with congregations in differ- 
ent parts of the United States. The plan upon which 
they propose to exhibit their principles to the world, 
embraces three parts: historical, declaratory, and ar- 
gumentative. The two first have been already pub- 
lished ; the argumentative is to appear hereafter. 
The declaratory part merely contains principles of 
universal application, founded upon the scriptures, 
and simply stated. The argumentative part has been 
in some measure anticipated by the zeal of two of the 



214 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

inembers of this communion. According to this sect, 
" Magistracy flows immediately from God, and is 
predicated upon his universal dominion over all na- 
tions. Civil rulers ought to exercise their office, not 
only in civil matters, but in matters purely religious, 
by punishing false worshippers, heretics, and con- 
temners of church government." 

They allow that allegiance is " due to a govern- 
ment when morally constituted," a fact of which they 
themselves are to be the judges; but to a constitution, 
which they consider to be immoral, they owe no al- 
legiance. In this view they include the constitutions 
oi Great Britain, of the United States, and of Penn- 
sylvania. That of the United States, is said to " give 
support to the enemies of the Redeemer, to admit 
to its honours and emoluments, Jews, Mahometans, 
Deists and Atheists : to establish that system of rob- 
bery, by which men are held in slavery, despoiled of 
liberty, property and protection;" and, finally it is de- 
clared to be " oppressive and impious." The consti- 
tution of Pennsylvania is said to " support and le- 
gally establish gross heresy, blasphemy and idolatry." 
For these reasons they refuse submission to their 
authority, and abstain from swearing allegiance 
thereto. 

They consider " oaths as acts of homage, perform- 
ed voluntarily to the Supreme Being, and by no 
means a recognition of the magistrate's authority to 
administer them." They are prohibited from serving 
on juries, because, " a juror voluntarily places himself 
upon oath, under the direction of a law which is im- 
moral," and for the same reason, they abstain from 
voting at elections. They believe it a duty to per- 
form the act of public covenanting. Notwithstanding 
the above doctrines, they profess to receive the 
Westminster confession of faith without limitation; 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. SliT 

©r explication of that part of it that describes the 
magistrate's power in matters of religion. There is, 
one congregation of this society in Philadelphia. 

Methodists. 

This sect, in North America, was first formed 
into a society at New York, in the year 1766, by 
Philip Embmy, a preacher from Ireland, and spread 
rapidly through the country. At present 4t pro- 
bably includes more members than any other deno- 
mination of christians. Their church government is 
episcopal, and their doctrines are nearly similar t@ 
those of other protestant sects. Erroneous notions of 
this society have been entertained in consequence of 
Mr. Wesley expressing his view of sanctification by 
the word perfection. Their discipline is very strict: 
and not only requires the most rigid and frequent 
confession of sins of omission, and commission, one 
to another, at their private meetings (or praying, but 
descends to the regulation of their conduct in their 
general intercourse with the world, to the prevention 
of idleness, the avoiding temptation, and to the re- 
gulation of dress. The distribution of good books is 
considered an important duty, and for this purpose, 
a fund is created, and a " superintendant of the book 
concern" appointed, who is empowered to regulate 
the publications, and all other parts of the business. 
They deem it a duty to travel through the country 
to preach to those who have no stated minister, and 
for this purpose the bishops appoint a certain num- 
ber of itinerant preachers, who make extensive tours, 
and by whom stated meetings for worship are held 
in the woods, at which thousands attend. A branch 
of this society, who object to the episcopal form of 
the church government of the Wesley Methodists^ 
(have assumed the n^me of the Christian Church. 



216 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

The exertions of this society have been attended 
with the most beneficial effects in the reformation of 
the lower order oi mankind ; and districts could be 
pointed out, not remote irom the capital, which from 
being iormerly proverbial ior licentiousness, have be* 
come, through its influence, exemplary ior morality. 
In one case, this change was chiefly owing to the la- 
bours of an individual, himself a mechanic, among a 
set of the most immoral men. By his influence, the 
thoughtless were alarmed, the absolutely wicked 
were reformed, and a regular religious society was 
constituted. There are four Methodist meeting hou- 
ses for whites, and two for blacks in Philadelphia. 

Vniversalists, 

A society believing in the final and universal re- 
demption of mankind, have existed for many years 
in Philadelphia* They have one church. 

Unitarians- 

Their leading tenets are a denial of the catholic 
doctrme of the Trinity, and an adherence to the lite- 
ral sense of those passages of scripture which assert 
the unity of God and the humanity of Christ, who 
therefore they think cannot be lawfully considered 
as an object of religious worship. Although agreed 
concerning the character of Christ as a man sent and 
approved of God, they are not unanimous as to his 
miraculous conception. This society was formed in 
this country soon after the arrival of the amiable, the 
pious, the venerable Dr. Priestley. They have at 
present no settled minister ; but their religious ser- 
vices are conducted by three of the members in ro- 
tation, appomted for that purpose agreeably to rules 
prescribed by their constitution, till the pastoral office 
shall be regularly filled. 



HfiLIGIOUS SOCIETmS. 2lf 

Independents — ^A society of Independents, compo- 
sed of members of various societies, was formed 
-about seven years ago. Their creed is the same as 
that of the Presbyterians. 

Jews — There are two synagogues in Philadelphia: 
but the members are declining in numbers. 

Places of Worships and names of their Ministers* 

Swedish Lutheran — Swanson-street, below Chris- 
tian. Rev. Dr. N. Collin. 

Quakers'— ^Ox\Q in Pine-street, between Front and 
Second-street; one in Key's alley, running from 
Front-street to Second, south of Vine-street ; one in 
Mulberry-street, corner of Fourth-street. They are 
all large, plain, brick buildings, with galleries. To the 
last mentioned is attached a burying ground, 360 by 
366 feet, and surrounded by a high brick wall. 

Free Quakers — Corner of Mulberry and Fifth*- 
vStreets ; it is 48 by ^o^ and two stories high. 

Episcopal Churches — Christ church, in Second, 
above High-street. The west end of the present Christ 
church was built in 1727, being added to a church, 
which, from the records, appears to have been erect- 
ed or enlarged, about the year 1710, and afterwards 
pulled down. The eastern part was begun in the year 
1731, and the building completed as it now stands, 
except the steeple, the foundation only oi v/liich was 
laid, with the west end of the church. It is 90 feet 
long and 60 ieet wide, and has a venerable appear- 
ance. The superstructure of the steeple was added 
about the year 1753. Ii is neat and simple, and just 
in its proportions, and was erected by the late Robert 
Smith. "The superstructure is composed of three, dis- 
tinct, well proportioned, parts oi architecture j the 
first story, with its small pediments and attics, form- 
ing one ; the octagonal part, with its ogee-formed 

T 



218 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

dome, being the second ; and the spire and its pe- 
destal, the third. These three parts are very dissi- 
milar, no one having any thing in it that is common 
to the others ; and yet they agree very well with each 
other, forming one complete and consistent whole."* 
It is 190 feet high, and has a ring of eight bells, 
which were brought out from England, by the late 
captain Richard Sudden. This gentleman was, for 
many years, a regular trader between Philadelphia 
and London, and remarkable for speedy passages, 
and careful attention to every person and thing on 
board. His ship, the Pennsylvania Packet, was nick- 
named the Bridge. His arrival was constantly an- 
nounced by the ringing of the church bells, a compli- 
ment to his generosity in bringing them freight free. 

St, Peter'' s^—Corner of Pine and Third-streets, was 
built in the year 1761r It is 90 feet long, and 60 
wide. 

St. yames — Seventh-street, north of High, was 
consecrated May 1, 1809. It is 90 feet long and 60 
wide. The foundation of a steeple is laid. Both 
these churches are very plain in their structure. The 
ministers have already been mentioned, p. 202. 

St, FaiiPs Church — Was built in the year 1762. It 
was set on foot by a few of the particular friends and 
admirers of a popular preacher of the day, the Rev. 
Mr. M'Clenaghan of Ireland, and is independent of 
the other episcopal churches in Philadelphia. The 
present rector, is the Rev. Dr. Pilmore. It is 90 
feet long, and 60 wide. 

Africa?! Episcopal of St, Thomas — Fifth-street, be- 
low Walnut, 60 by 45 feet. Built in 1794. Deacon, 
Absalom Jones. 

BaptistS'-^The first baptist church built, is in Se- 
cond-street near Mulber -street ; it was originally 



Biddle's Architecture.— B. Johnson—Philadelphia, 18^5. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 219 

61 feet by 42, but was much enlarged last year. 
It was erected in 1762. A burying ground lies back 
of it. This church is now vacant. 

A second is in Budd-street, above Poplar-lane, 
of which, the Rev. Mr. White is Pastor. 

A third, is in south Second-street, near Catharine- 
street. Pastor, Rev. J. Peckworth. 

A fourth is building in George-street, west of 
Eighth, for the Rev. Dr. Staughton. It is to be 9© 
feet in the clear. 

There is also an African Baptist meeting house 
building, in Tenth above Vine-street. 

Presbyterians — 1. High-street, between Second 
and Third-streets, erected 170-k rebuilt 1793; 88 feet 
long, 56 broad, 46 feet high. The ascent is by eight 
marble steps. Its front is a prostyle of four columns. 
Pastor, Rev. Dr. J. P.Wilson. 

2d. Corner of Mulberry and Third-streets, built 
1750: enlarged 1809: 95 feet long, and 60 wide. Pas- 
tors, Rev. Dr. A. Green, and Rev. Mr. Janeway. 
This society built another place oi worship in Second- 
street, corner of Coates-street, in the Northern Li- 
berties, in 1804: 80 by 60 feet. The ministers oi the 
church in Mulberry-street, officiate alternately in it. 

3d. In Pine-street, between Fourth and Fiith- 
streets ; this was built by the congregation ot the first 
Presbyterian church, in 1766. A burying ground is 
attached to it. Pastor, the Rev. Dr. A. Alexander. 

4uh. In Fifth, near Cedar-street. Pastor, Rev. 
George Potts. 

5i.h. A filth is building for the African Presbyte- 
rians. 

Roman Catholic — St. Joseph, between Willing's al- 
ley and Walnut-street, built in 1733. This is only 
used at present ^or morning prayers. It is about 40 
by 40 feet, and one story high. 



% 



'^30 RELIGlbUS SOCIETIES. 

St. Mary's, Fourth, below Walnut-street, built in 
1763, and enlarged in 1810. It is now 100 by 71 feet. 
Pastors, the bishop Egan, Dr. John Rosseter, Rev. 
Mr. Harrold. 

Holy Trinity, corner of Spruce and Sixth-streets, 
fcuilt in 1789. Pastor, Rev. A. Britt. It is 100 feet 
long and 60 wide. 

St. Augustine, built in 1800, Fourth-street, near 
Vine-street. Pastor, Rer. Mr. Hurley. The altars of 
the three last chapels, are highly finished, elegant 
pieces of work. 

German Luther aw — or Zion church, in Fourth- 
street, above Mulberry-street, v/as built in 1766. It 
is 107 feet long, 71 broad, and 44 to the eves. Di- 
vine service is performed in the German language. 
The Rev. Dr. Helmuth, and Mr. Schmidt, are min- 
isters. The old church was burnt on the 26th Dec* 
1794; the walls remaining, it was rebuilt, in 1796. It 
has a very handsome organ, perhaps the largest in 
North America, built by Low, of Philadelphia. 

St. John's church, was lately erected by a part of 
the congregation, who were desirous to have divine 
service performed in the English language. It is sit- 
uated in Race-street, between Fifth and Sixth-streets, 
and is the handsomest church in Philadelphia. It is 
100 feet by 67, and does great credit to those who 
designed it. The Pastor, is the Rev. Mr. Mayer. 

Germa?i Reformed — is in Sassafras, near Fourth- 
street, is 90 feet long, 65 feet wide, and 43-4iigh ; 
built in 1762. Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Helfenstein. 

Another church was lately erected by a part of this 
.congregation, (who like the Lutherans, were desi- 
rous of having worship performed in the English 
language) in Crown-street, which runs north and 
south, between Fourth and Fifth-streets. It is 90 by 
60 feet. They have assumed the name of the Evan-- 
gelical Church, Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Burch. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 221 

Moravians — The only church belonging to this so- 
ciety is in Moravian-alley, which runs north and 
south between Second and Third-streets. It was 
erected in the year 1742. It is 40 feet long and 30 
wide. Pastor, Rev. Joseph Zeslein. 

Associate — Walnut, between Fourth and Fifth 
streets. Vacant. 

Associate Reformed — Spruce-street, between Third 
and Fourth-streets. Pastor, Rev. Dr. Gray. 

Covenanters'— 'Wlary street^ running from Sixth to 
Seventh-street, below Cedar-street. Pastor, Rev. 
Mr. Wylie. 

Methodist — St. George, in Fourth-street, opposite 
St. Augustine church. It is 85 feet long, and 60 wide. 
Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Roswell. 

Ebenezer, Second, near Queen-street. Do. 

Union, at the old college, Fourth- street. Pastor^ 
the Rev. Mr. Bishop. 

Bethel, Sixth, near Lombard. Pastor, Richard Al- 
len. (African.) 

Zoar, Brown-street, Northern Liberties, west of 
Fourth-street. (African.) 

Christian Church — Mount Zion, Christian-streetj 
near Sixth-street. Elder, Elias Smith. 

Another is about to be built. 

Universalist — In Lombard, between Fourth and 
Fifth-streets. Pastor, Rev. Dr. Richards. 

Unitarian — In Church alley. 

Independents- — In a court, west of Fourth, and 
north of Chesnut-street. Pastor, Rev. Mr. Joyce. 

yews- — Cherry alley- — and near Cable lane. Pas- 
tor, J. Cohen. 

In concluding this brief account of the numerous 
religious societies m Philadelphia, it would be im- 
proper to omit noticing the principle oi universal cha,- 
rity,and truly christian spirit oi harmony, on religious 
subjects, whichj from the settlement of the coimtry 

T 2 



-222 KELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

by Europeans, has governed the various ruling pow^:' 
ers ; a spirit, apparently interwoven in all our institu- 
tions, and from which Pennsylvania has most un- 
questionably derived much ot her present domestic 
happiness, and political prosperity. 

The frequent contentions between the original set- 
ters, the Swedes, the Dutch and the English, previ- 
ously to the arrival of Penn, were purely of a politi- 
cal nature, and as either power gained possession of 
the country, they seemed only anxious to preserve 
the government, to conciliate the natives, and to re- 
tain the settlers, without interfering in religious con^ 
cerns. The contending parties, it is true, were pro- 
testants, but even in other protestant colonies, perse- 
cution was waged against inoffensive Christians for 
non-conformity to the religious doctrines of the ru- 
lers, and for professions not at all tending to disturb 
the public tranquility. No public declaration had in- 
deed ever been made respecting the preservation of 
the rights of conscience, by any of the governments 
which had successively obtained the possession of 
the country on the Delaware; but this measure, at 
once so politic and just, early entered into the views 
of the pacific legislator, to whom it was finally ceded; 
and although Penn had not the glory of taking the 
lead on this subject, in the new world, yet his colony 
and their descendants may, without vanity, boast of 
having acted up to the divine principle as fully, if 
Bot more so, than even those among whom it was 
first promulgated. 

In the laws agreed upon in England, with the ad- 
venturers, this great point was expressly provided 
for; and the first law which Penn passed in conjunc- 
tion with the representatives of the people, at their 
Erst assembly, convened in the province, was " con- 
cerning liberty of conscience,'*'' Finally, in the " Char- 
ter of Privileges" to the province, granted October 
2J3^ 15^01 5 and constituting the permanent form isf 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES.' 223 

government, he, in terms, plain, but highly eloquent, 
secured to the colonists the precious right.* The 
American revolution necessarily abolished this instru- 
ment, as a general rule, but the iramers ol the state 
constitution that was substituted, retained the prin- 
ciple of free worship, and in the declaration of rights 
of our present constitution, it is even extended.j 
The cardinal points oi religion being insisted on, the 
legislators wisely considered that subordinate creeds, 
or modes of faith, are subjects properly to be settled 
between God and man : and such has been the ef- 
fect, that the consideration of the religious profes- 



* The first article of the Charter begins thus : " Because no 
people can be truly happy, though under the greatest enjoyment 
of civil liberties, if abridged of the freedom of their consciences, 
a^ to their religious profession and worship; and Almighty God 
being the only Lord of conscience ; Father of lights and spirits > 
and the Author as well as Object of all divine knowledge, faith 
and worship, who only doth enlighten the mind, and persuade 
and convince the understandings of people ; I do hereby grant 
and declare, that no person or persons inhabiting in this pro- 
vince or temtories, who shall confess and acknowledge one 
Almighty God, the Creator, Upholder, and Ruler of the world : 
and profess him or themselves obliged to live quietly under the 
civil government, shall be in any case molested or prejudiced in 
his or their person or estate because of their conscientious persua- 
sion or practice^ nor be compelled to frequent or maintain any re- 
ligious worship, place or ministry, contrary to his or their mind, 
or to do, or suffer any other act or thing contrary to their religious 
persuasion. And that all persons who also profess to believe in 
Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, shall be capable, not- 
withstanding their other persuasions and practices in point of 
conscience and religion,) to serve this government in any capaci- 
ty, both legislatively and executively, he or they solemnly pro- 
mising, when lawfully required, allegiance to the king as sover- 
eign, and fidelity to the pi-oprietary and governor, and taking the 
attests as now established by the law, made at New-Castle, in 
the year 1700." 

f Art. IX. 4. "No person who acknowledges the being of a' 
God, and a future state of rewards and punishments, shall on ac" 
count of his religious sentiments, be disqualified to hold any of- 
fice or place of trust and profit under this commoiiwealth."* 



324 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

sionof a candidate for a public office, never influen- 
ces the decision of the magistrates, or the people at 
large ; hence it is agreeable to see in our public coun- 
cils, men of every religious persuasion sitting side by 
side ; deliberating on measures of finance, internal 
improvement, the regulation of justice, or the pro- 
motion of religion generally, as if they were mem- 
bers of a government in which the irritating distinc- 
tions arising from the existence of a religious estab- 
lishment, precluded all from a participation in office, 
except those professing the govermental creed, 
and where, consequently, their deliberations would 
never be disturbed by a difference of sentiment on 
this interesting question — May the present cha- 
ritable TEMPER PREVAIL TO THE LATEST PERIOD 
OF TIME. 

Charitable Institutions — 1. Pennsylvania HospitaL 

The first proposal for a public hospital in Phila« 
delphia, was made about the year 1750, by the late 
Dr. Thomas Bond, who in his professional capaci- 
ty, had frequent occasions for seeing the want of 
such an institution. Having united with several 
citizens, a petition was presented to the house of 
assembly on the 23d January, 1750-51, stating the 
want of such an institution, and recommending the 
subject to their consideration. The assembly in con- 
sequence, passed an act, granting the sum of ;{, 2000, 
to be paid as soon as a like sum should be raised by 
subscriptions or contributions. 

As soon as the law was published, the promoters 
of the humane design set on foot a subscription, 
which in a short time amounted to considerably 
more than the sum required by the act, and on the 
first of May, 1751, a number of the contributors met 
a;t the State-house in Philudelphia^ and pursuant to 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. ^5 

the act, chose by ballot twelve managers and a'trea- 
surer. These were, 

Joshua Crosby, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Bond, 
Samuel Hazard, Richard Peters, Israel Pemberton, 
jun. Samuel Rhoads, Hugh Roberts, Joseph Mor- 
ris, John Smith, Evan Morgan, Charles Norris. 
Treasurer, John Reynell. 

Benjamin Franklin acted for some years as clerk 
to the managers. 

A house, late the residence of judge Kinsey, in 
High-street, now the third house west oi Fifth-street, 
(No. 172) then in the out-skirts of the city, was rent- 
ed as a hospital, and on the 2d of February, 1752, 
the first patients were admitted.^ The first attend- 
ing physicians to the institution were, Drs. Lloyd 
Zachary, Thomas and Phineas Bond. Drs. Grseme, 
Cadwalader, Moore and Redman, were appointed 
consulting physicians. 

Application was made to the proprietaries of the 
province, then in London, for a lot of ground to erect 
a hospital on, and a square was particularly pointed 
out, as most desirable for the purpose, viz. " a va- 
cant part of the square between Ninth and Tenth- 
streets from Delaware, on the south side of Mul- 
berry-street J the lots in that part of the city not 
having advanced in value for several years past, and 
not likely to be soon settled:" the proprietaries not 
being disposed to grant the lot, presented them with 
another of about the same extent on the north side 
of Sassafras-street, between Sixth and Seventh-sts. 
from Delaware. This lot the managers did not think 
proper to accept, in consideration of its then being 
contiguous to the brick-yards, which, from the stag- 
nant water in them, rendered the air unhealthy. 



• The rent was ;^40 annually : but " the stable and pastiu'e, 
were let for ^^15 to tlje late Mr. Kintzing-, 



226 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAX, 

"When the nature of this charitable design became 
known, considerable sums were soon added to the 
stock, particularly by the citizens of Philadelphia, 
where few of the wealthy, or those of a middling 
rank, failed of contributing according to their circum- 
stances. Some benefactions were also obtained from 
London and the West Indies, which encouraged the 
managers to attempt the building, but the prospectof a 
w^ar in America, while it was likely to increase the 
occasion, lessened the expectation of any further as- 
sistance from them ; nevertheless, confiding in the 
same Divine Providence, which had hitherto blessed 
their pious endeavours, for assistance to perform 
that work, they sought for~ a suitable spot oi ground 
to erect an hospital on : and had the satisfaction to 
purchase, on moderate terms, the lot which of all in 
or near the city, was judged most proper for such a 
design.^ 

" This purchase being made near the end of the 
year 1754, the managers directed a plan of a hospital 
to be prepared; and one of them drew a design oi the 
whole building, in such a form, that one third part 
alone could be executed with tolerable symmetry, and 
containing, independently of the other parts, all ac- 
commodations requisite for the present purpose. 

" This design being approved of, the contributors 
were notified to meet, in order to consider the pro- 
posal, and approving the immediate building of the 
parts proposed, the managers appointed one of their 
own number, to provide materials, agree with the 
workmen, and superintend the work, and a commit- 
tee to advise and assist therein, as occasion might re- 
quire. These, with one of the most capable of the 



* The Proprietaries afterwards presented the hospital vfixh. 
the rest of the lot, forming a square» 



l^ENNSYLVAMA HOSPITAL. 257 

contributors, devoting themselves to the service, uni- 
ted in concerting the most frugal method oi carr3ang 
on the building, and industriously solicited contribu- 
tions from all persons concerned therein. Most of 
those from whom materials were purchased, contri- 
buted a large proportion of what they furnished ; 
and so diligent and successful were their applications, 
that scarce a tradesman, or even labourer, was em- 
ployed, without engaging a part [ot his labour] to 
be charitably applied in the premises." 

The foundation stone of the first part of the pre- 
sent building, was laid on the 28th May, 1/55 ; and 
bears the following neat inscription, written by Dr« 
Franklin. 

In the year of Christ, 
MDCCLV. 

George the Second, happily reigning, 

{For he sought the happiness of his PeopleJ) 

Philadelphia Flourishing, 

(For its inhabitants were public spirited^) 

This Building, 

By the bounty of the Government, 

And of many private persons, 

Was piously founded, 

For the Relief of the Sick and Miserable i 

May the God of Mercies, 

Bless the undertaking. 

The hospital stands on a square, three hundred and 
ninety-six ieet in width, and four hundred and sixty- 
eight feet in length, containing about four acres-— 
Round it is a brick wall, and rows of high forest 
trees. Within the wall, the ground is decorated with 
gardens, grass plots, gravel walks, hedges, &c. Part 
oi the south front is inclosed by an iron railing, 
in the yard, fronting the south side of the house, 



^8 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

is a leaden statue, bronzed, of William Penn, on a 
marble pedestal, who is represented holding a scroll, 
having part of the first sentence of the " charter of 
privileges" inscribed on it. This statue was presented 
by Mr. John Penn, now of London, to the hospital, 
in the year 1801. 

There is also a vacant square to the east, and 
half a square to the west j containing together, more 
than six acres, running in parallel lines with the 
ground on which the buildings are erected ; the other 
half of this square is owned by the city, and as it is 
meant to keep it always open, the Pennsylvania hos- 
pital is, and will be, situated in the middle of three 
great squares, which, besides the open streets, mea- 
sure more than thirteen acres. The contributors have 
also bought three lots on the south side of the hospi- 
tal, in order to secure a free current of air, preserve 
the water pure, and to guard against fire. The policy of 
this provision was never more conspicuous, than du- 
ring the late fevers, particularly in 1793, when not a 
person in the hospital took it, though upwards of 
four thousand died of it, in about four months, in the 
city, in that year. 

Knowing the inestimable value of open ground to 
the hospital, the contributors have a confident assu- 
rance, that avarice itself, will never dare to propose 
the alienation of one foot of the ground, which they 
have provided at their own expense for such a be- 
nevolent use. 

The hospital exhibits in the centre, a house, sixty 
four feet in front, elevated above all the adjoining 
buildings, and projecting beyond them a proper dis- 
tance. On the top is a sky light, to enlighten the 
theatre for surgical operations ; from which there is 
a beautiiui view of the city plot, the river, German- 
town, Frankford, the fort, and several elegant coun- 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 



220 



try seats on the Schuylkill. Two large stair cases, 
leading to the several wards, are made in this divi- 
sion. 

Adjoining hereto on the east, is a ward, 80 feet 
front, 27 feet deep, and three stories high ; at the 
end, a wing crosses it, north and south, extending in 
length, 110 feet. 

In the middle of the wing, opposite to the ward, is 
a hall, 28 feet square, including a stair-case, project- 
ing beyond the other part of the wing, sufficient to 
cover the cornice, and raised one story above them, 
with a cupola, that affords a secure way out, in case 
of fire. 

Adjoining to the centre house on the west, are a 
ward and wing, similar to those on the cast, with this 
exception, that the wards are about 34 feet deep : this 
extension was agreed to, in order to admit double 
rows of rooms, to accommodate a greater number of 
lunatics The difference, unless to an accurate ob- 
server, is scarcely perceivable. 

The whole extent of the buildings, from east to 
west, is two hundred and seventy-eight feet : by the 
length of the wing, crossing the wards, the east and 
wcBt fronts make an agreeable appearance. Detach- 
ed from the hospital, at a little distance, is a sepa- 
rate building, with a convenient enclosure, for vene- 
real patients, who are kept by themselves. There are 
also, sundry other apartments on the lot, such as 
stable, ice-house, smoke-house, fire engine-house, &c. 

Rooms in the hospital are appropriated to the fol- 
lowing uses. 

For the library, . , . « . 1 



Contributors, 
Managers, 
Museum, 

Apothecary's shop, 
Bathing rooms, 



V 



230 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

Theatre for operations, . . . . 1 
Wash-house, Bake-house and Kitchens, . 4 
Cell keeper and his wife, .... 1 
Steward, matron and servants, in the centrehouse, 8 
Lunatics, in the west wing and ward, . 70 

Do. in the east, . . . . .16 

For sick and wounded, . . . .23 

In all, 130 
wards and rooms. 

The lunatics, being separated from the sick by the 
centre house, the latter are not incommoded by 
their noise. 

There is an excellent anatomical museum, consist- 
ing of admirable imitations of every part of the hu- 
man body, in wax, made by the late Dr. Chovet, up- 
wards of half a century ago, in Jamaica. A set of 
anatomical paintings, and castings in gypsum, pre- 
sented by the late Dr. John Fothergill, of London, 
the uniform and active friend of the United States, 
and of the hospital : and numerous injected prepara- 
tions, and others in spirit, by various hands. 

The library comprises about three thousand vol- 
umes of choice medical books, and is thought to be 
the best collection of the kind in this country : this 
and the museum, are enlarged and supported by a 
fund of about five hundred dollars per annum, which 
medical pupils, who attend the lectures, from all 
parts of the continent, West Indies, &c. pay for the 
privilege of reading, and attending the practice of the 
house ; the money is exclusively applied to enlarge 
the collection, with the consent of the physicians, 
who, in other countries, enjoy these perquisites to 
themselves. 

By an act of the legislature, passed in 1 801 , liber* 
ty was granted to graft upon the hospital, a lying-in 
and foundling department. The lying-in department, 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL, 23t 

for married women, has been some years in opera- 
tion. Single pregnant women, come under the no- 
tice of the law : and are provided for by the guar- 
disins of the poor. 

The contributors were incorporated in the year 
1/51, by an act of the colonial legislature, by the name 
and tide of " Contributors to the Pennsylvania Hospi- 
tah" such may vote at elections for managers, or be vo- 
ted for, but derive no personal interest from the act of 
incorporation. A contributor is one who bestows ten 
pounds to the hospital. A sum less than ten pounds, 
is called a donation. 

The contributors have perpetual succession, w^ith 
power to elect twelve managers, a treasurer, and all 
other officers of the institution, and make rules for 
the well-ordering of the house. They may receive and 
take the lands, hereditaments, and tenements, not ex- 
ceeding the yearly value of one thousand pounds, of 
the gift, alienation, bequest or devise of any person 
or persons whomsoever, and of any goods and chat- 
ties whatsoever; provided, that, no general meeting 
of the contributors, or persons acting under them, 
shall employ any money or other estate, expressly 
given to the capital stock of the hospital, in any other 
way, than by applying its annual interest or rent to- 
wards the entertainment and care of the sick and dis- 
tempered poor, that shall from time to time be 
brought and placed therein, for the cure of their dis- 
eases, from any part of the state, without partiality or 
preference. 

If there should not be a constant succession of 
contributors to meet yearly and choose managers, 
then the hospital, its estate and aifairs, and all the 
management thereof, are to be under the direction of 
such persons as the legislature may appoint. 

By a law of the contributors, the power of direct- 
ing the manner and terms of receiving and discharge 



332 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

ing patients, is transferred to the managers, who 
made a rule, if there should be room in the hospital, 
(after as many poor patients are accommodated as 
the interest of the capital stock can support,) to take 
in such others, as they can on reasonable rates agree 
for ; and that the profits arising from boarding and 
nursing such patients, shall be appropriated to the 
same uses, as the interest money of the public stock. 
The price of board is various, according to the appli- 
cant's ability to pay; but changes with the rise and fall 
of provisions, &c. 

The overseers of the poor of Pennsylvania, and re- 
ligious societies therein, who support their own 
poor by voluntary subscriptions, pay but three dol- 
lars a week, which is about the first cost of one per- 
son's maintenance, including medicine and all charg- 
es, except clothing and funeral expenses. 

The overseers of the poor of other states pay four 
dollars; private patients, who are residents of Pennsyl- 
vania, from three and a half, to ten dollars ; and non- 
residents, from four and a half, to ten dollars. Every 
patient may choose his own physician, but he must be 
one of the house physicians. 

An amputation of a limb is not to be performed^ 
unless the patient consents to it ; nor then, unless 
three physicians agree to it, after a consultation on 
the casco 

Single persons, who are sick, especially strangers, 
will find it their interest to prefer the hospital to any 
tavern or boarding-house ; for the following reasons. 

The physicians are of the first eminence. 

The nurses are experienced. 

The apartments are convenient. 

The price of board is lower than individuals can 
take, and the patient has the satisfaction to know, if 
there is any profit, it is given to the poor. 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 23o 

These facts are stated from a thorough knowledge 
of the institution, and because it is conceived that 
the interests of humanity may be served by so doing ; 
for many persons may be prevented from deriving 
the benefits of it, from false notions of a hospital, or 
from having seen the want of neatness, the crowded 
wards, and inattention to the sick in some European 
hospitals. 

Two managers and two physicians, meet every 
Wednesday and Saturday in the hospital at 1 1 o'clock 
in the forenoon, to admit and discharge patients. 

At intervening times, the applicant must repair to 
one of the monthly physicians, who, if he considers 
the case a proper one, will certify it in writing, to 
the sitting manager, who will take the usual secu- 
rity, and give an order for admission. 

Overseers of the poor, from the country, who bring 
a patient, must have a certificate, signed by two ma- 
gistrates, denoting that they are in office, and that the 
pauper, proposed for admission, resides in their dis- 
trict, or their application will be rejected. 

Persons with contagious diseases, are not to be 
received, nor incurable cases, lunatics excepted : 
but, any person living in or near Philadelphia, re- 
ceiving, by accident, a desperate wound, or having a 
fractured limb, may be brought to the hospital, with- 
out an order; and he will be received day or night, 
provided he is brought in within twenty-four hours 
after the accident. The design oi this proviso is, to 
prevent the injured person from suffering by neglect, 
or from employing unskilful hands. 

The capital stock consists of ground-rents and mo- 
ney at interest: besides these, there is no produ ;- 
tive income for the support of poor patients, except 
the profit of pay patients, both of which sums united, 
will not maintain more than sixty poor persons ; nor 

u 2 



%$4i PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL, 

can the number be increased, until by legacies, or fu- 
ture contributions, the funds are enlarged : this in- 
crease is much to be desired, as every convenience 
is provided in the hospital, to accommodate three 
hundred and fifty persons, on a moderate calcula- 
tion ; but for want of an adequate capital, num- 
bers are necessarily denied the benefits of an institu- 
tion that is peculiarly well situated, in other respects, 
to relieve them. 

The managers, treasurer, and physicians are all 
contributors, and serve gratis, except that persons in 
affluence pay the physicians, as they would if attend- 
ed in private houses. 

Such are the principles on which this institution 
has been raised and supported ; and as it has been of 
the greatest utility to the public, it is hoped it wiU 
continue to excite their attention, until, by the en- 
largement of its funds, its benefits may be extended 
to a greater number of poor, agreeably to the design 
of its pious founders. 

Legacies are usually given in the corporate name,, 
as follows. 

I give and bequeath to the contributors to the PenU' 
sylvania Hospital, to be added to the capital stock, 
dollars. 

Contributions and donations are received by Jo- 
seph Saunders Lewis, treasurer. No. 25, Dock street. 

The tax commonly called the city hospital tax, is 
raised for the lazaretto, &c. and not foi the Pennsyl- 
vania hospital, as many suppose, who do not observe 
the distinction. 

The Pennsylvania hospital, ever since its founda- 
tion, has been exempted from taxation, until within 
the last three years, when all the real estate, except 
the lot on which the hospital stands, has been as- 
sessed ; but the city councils^ from a conviction of its 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 235 

general utility, by a late ordinance, have exempted it 
from city taxes. The county, health, and poor taxes 
are still assessed. 

Present officers of the institution. 
Managers — Josiah Hewes, Samuel Coates, Thomas 
Stewardson, Lawrence Seckel, Thomas P. Cope, Pat- 
tison Hartshorne, Zaccheus Collins, Paschall Hol- 
lingsworth, Edward Pennington, William Poyntel), 
Reeve Lewis, Joseph Lownes. 

Treasurer — Joseph Saunders Lewis. 

Physicians^ — Dr. Rush, Dr. Parke, Dr. Wistar, Dr» 
Physick, Dr. Barton, Dr. Hartshorne. 

Physician to the lying-in department— Dr. Tho- 
mas C. James. 

Physician to the out patients— Dr. Samuel Cal- 
houn. 

Medical pupils in the house — John Moore, B. S. 
Janney, Theodore Benson. 

Steward — Francis Higgins. 

Matron — Hannah Higgins. 

During the year, ending the 27th of April, 1811, 
there were admitted in the house, 356, pay, and 220 
poor patients, ...... 576 

And attended out of doors, poor, . . 1616 
Of whom were cured, . 309 1258 

Relieved, . , . . 53 70 

Incurable, .... 1 1 

Discharged at their own request, 20 removed, 89 
Irregular, .... 1 61 

Delivered, .... 5 10 

Discharged infants in health, 5 vaccined, 37 

Eloped, . . . .6 

Died, .... 52 81 

Remain, • . • .124 remain 89 



S36 PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. 



2. Philadelphia Dispensary* 

A consideration of the distresses of the poor, when 
afflicted with disease, and of their inability to provide 
for themselves in such a situation gave rise to the de- 
sign of establishing a Dispensary for their relief in 
1786. This first effort of the kind in the United 
States of America, has been attended with the hap- 
piest effects, and the example has been followed in 
most of our principal cities. 

The following extract from the introduction to 
the plan, as first published in 1786, will serve to give 
a more comprehensive view of the nature and utility 
of a Dispensary. 

^' Plaji of the Philadelphia Dispensary for the medi- 
cal relief of the Poor. 
" To the Citizens of Philadelphia. 

" In all large cities there are many poor persons 
afflicted by diseases, whose former circumstances and 
habits of independence will not permit them to^ ex- 
pose themselves as patients in a public hospital. 
There are also many diseases and accidents of so 
acute and dangerous a nature, that the removal of 
patients afflicted by them, is attended with many ob- 
vious inconveniences. And there are some diseases 
of such a nature, that the air of an hospital, crowded 
with patients, is injurious in them. A number of gen- 
tlemen having taken these things into consideration, 
have proposed to establish a Public Dispensary in the 
city of Philadelphia, for the medical relief of the 
poor. 

" The particular advantages of this institution v/ill 
be as ioUow : 

" 1st. The sick may be attended and relieved in 
their own houses, without the pain and inconvenience 



PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. 227 

of being separated from their families. A father may- 
still continue to provide for his children, and chil- 
dren may enjoy in sickness the benefit of a mo- 
ther's kindness and attention. 

" 2dly. The sick may be relieved at a much less 
expense to the public, than in an hospital, where 
provisions, bedding, fire wood, and nurses, are re- 
quired for their accommodation. 

" And 3dly. The sick may be relieved in a man- 
ner perfectly consistent with those noble feelings of 
the human heart, which are inseparable from virtu- 
ous poverty ; and in a manner also strictly agreeable 
to those refined precepts of Christianity, which incul- 
cate secrecy in acts of charity and benevolence." 

The objects of the institution are the indigent 
SICK, of every description, and in every disease, when 
recommended by the contributors. They are visited 
at their own houses, when unable to go abroad ; but 
those who can come out, attend at the dispensary, 
where the physicians prescribe for them at stated 
times. 

The apothecary resides at the Dispensary, receives 
applications for admission, and records the name, 
age, occupation, and residence of the patients ; the 
name of the contributor, who recommends them : 
their diseases, and the event. He gives information 
to the attending physicians, when the sick require be- 
ing visited at their own houses : he prepares and re- 
cords all the prescriptions of the physicians, including 
not only medicines strictly so called, but also wine, 
sago, oatmeal, barley, &c. When cured, the patients 
are required to take a discharge to the contributor 
who recommended them. 

The city and liberties are divided into two dis- 
tricts. Two physicians are on duty at the same time ; 
who, on the alternate days of the week, attend a 
the dispensary, such patients of their respective dis- 



238 PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. 

tricts as are able to go abroad, and also regularly vi- 
sit those who are confined at theh^ own houses. 

The funds of the institution arise from a guinea 
annually paid by each contributor ; or, ten guineas 
at one payment constituting a life subscription. Le- 
gacies and donations also forma considerable part of 
the funds. 

The form of a legacy is as follows : " T give and 

bequeath to the Philadelphia Dispensary, the sum of 

to be paid to their treasurer for the 

time being, and applied towards carrying on the 

charitable designs of the said institution." 

The general business of the institution is directed 
by twelve managers, who are annually elected by the 
contributors. The managers meet every month, and 
at the close of every year, publish an account of the 
number of patients, who have received the benefits of 
the institution, as well as a statement of the receipts 
and expenditures of monies during the year. They 
also annually appoint six attending and four consult- 
ing physicians and surgeons, a treasurer, and an apo- 
thecary. A charter of incorporation was procured in 
1796. 

The attending physicians are on duty, in succes- 
sion, for two months at a time. They may apply to 
the consulting physicians in difficult cases. The phy- 
sicians give their attendance gratis. 

The want of a convenient situation was, for a long 
time, sensibly felt by the managers, and induced 
them in 1800, to purchase a lot of ground in Fifth- 
street, and to erect thereon, a commodious building. 
The funds for this purpose consisted of some stock 
purchased with former savings, and of donations, so- 
licited for the purpose amongst our fellow-citizens. 
Several liberal bequests have also been made, 
amongst which are peculiarly to be reckoned those 
of the late Andrew Doz, John Bleakley, and the 



PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. 23$ 

sum bestowed by the trustees of the fund left by the 
late John Keble ; which have not only served to ex- 
tricate the institution from an heavy debt incurred by 
the purchase of the lot, and erection of the building; 
but also, with the assistance of the annual contribu- 
tions, to enable the managers to carry on the busi- 
ness of the dispensary in a more satisfactory and ex- 
tensive manner, the number of patients having consi- 
derably increased. Three thousand two hundred and 
seventy -five patients were under the care of the dis- 
pensary from December 1st, 1809, to December Ist^ 
1810. 

Remaining from last year, . . 82 

Admitted since last year, 



Of whom the number Cured, is 

Dead, 
Relieved, 
Removed, 
Irregular, 
Remaining under care, 



3193 

2>275 

2916 
99 
98 
26 
38 
98 

32ro 

Officers of the institution elected January, 1811. 

Managers — William White, D. D. President ; 
Henry Helmuth, Godfrey Haga, Joseph Crukshank, 
Robert Blackwell, Lawrence Seckel, James Robert- 
son, Robert Smith, Isaac Snowden, Ebenezer Ha- 
zard, Robert Ralston. 

Secretary — Dr. Samuel P. Griffitts. 

Attending Physicians and Surgeons— Drs. Joseph 
Parrish, Isaac Cleaver, John Perkin, Henry NeiU, 
Samuel S. Stewart, Benjamin Kugler. 

Consulting Physicians and Surgeons — Drs. Benja- 
min Rush, Thomas Parke, Caspar Wistar, Phi- 
lip S. Physick. 

Treasurer — John Clifford. 

Apothecary — George G. Tresse* 



240 HUMANE SOCIETY. 

The whole expense of the institution, for the last 
year, for house support, medicines, and apothecaries 
salary, amounted to the small sum of ^2160 78 : and 
justifies the observation made by one of its founders,^^ 
that it " exhibits something like the application of 
the mechanical powers to the purposes of humanity, 
for in what other charitable institution do we per- 
ceive so great a quantity of distress relieved by so 
small an expense ?" 

3. Humane Societu, 

This useful society was established during the re° 
volutionary war, 1780. Its attention is directed to the 
recovery of drowned persons, and of those whose ani- 
mation may be suspended from other causes, as 
breathing air contaminated by burning charcoal, 
hanging, exposure to the choke damp of wells, 
drinking cold water while warm in summer, strokes 
of the sun, lightning, swallowing laudanum, &c. 

For the purpose of recovering the bodies of drown- 
ed persons, drags are placed at all the ferries, and 
public places ot resort on both sides the Delaware, 
and on Schuylkill, with the usual apparatus, and 
boxes of necessary medicines. Medical assistants are 
appointed, to whom the public are recommended in 
the first instance to apply in the event of an accident 
happening : directions for the treatment of the vari- 
ous cases that may occur, have occasionally been 
published, and rewards are annually bestowed upon 
those who risque their own lives in the attempt to 
save that of others. Handbills, containing cautions 
against drinking cold water, when the body is heated, 
with directions to obviate the deadly effects of such 
imprudence, are annually printed, and pasted upon all 

* Dr. Rush. 



ABOLITION' SOCIETT. %tl 

the pumps previously to the commencement of the 
hot months. 

For the purpose of adding to the knowledge al- 
ready possessed on suspended animation, the society 
have offered the following medals. 

For the best dissertation on the means of restoring 
to life persons apparently dead by drowning, and 
more effectually than any yet in use, a gold medal, 
value two hundred dollars. 

For the second best, a piece of plate, value one 
hundred dollars. 

The dissertations are to be sent to the secretary of 
the society, (post paid) by the first day of Januarv, 
1813. 

They may be written in the English, French, or 
Latin language, to be accompanied with a sealed pa- 
per, containing the author's name and place of resi- 
dence, which is not to be opened unless the prize is 
decreed. 

They shall be submitted to the judgment and de- 
cision ot the medical professors of the University of 
Pennsylvania. 

The society is in correspondence with the Hu- 
mane Society of London. 

The society is incorporated. The annual meeting 
for the appointment of officers is on the first Wednes- 
day in March. The annual subscription of the con- 
tributors is one dollar. 

Joseph Crukshank, President. 

Isaac Snowden, Secretary. 

Abolition Society. 

The people of Pennsylvania, while struggling for 
their own liberty against foreign oppression, were 
struck with the incons'stency of reta ning in slavery 
a portion of their fellow creatures, and therefore, in 

X 



^2 ABOLITION SOCIETl'. 

the height of the revokitionary war, (1780) passed a 
law for its gradual abolition. All blacks and mulat- 
toes born, from that time, irom slaves, were declared 
to be free, after having served their masters 28 years^ 
in the manner and on the same conditions as com- 
mon apprentices are held. A supplement was passed 
in the year 1788, which declared that all slaves of 
persons intending to settle in the state, should be 
free, upon their coming therein. By being first ma- 
numitted, they may be bound as an apprentice to 
serve such a term of years, as may be agreed on be- 
tween master and man. Various other provisions 
were made on the subject, and a society, originally 
formed in 1774, but enlarged in 1787, attended to 
their execution. It was incorporated in the year 1789, 
and has been attended with a zeal worthy the cause in 
which they were engaged. I he inconvenience which 
many sustained from having been deprived of their 
slaves, in consequence oi neglecting to register them: 
the apparent hardship, and want oi generosity m libe- 
rating the slaves ol those who were flying to our state as 
an asylum trom war, tyranny or disease ; and accu- 
sations of improper interference with slaves who were 
contented with their lot, all served to render this so- 
ciety, for a long time, highly unpopular with slave- 
holders, and the enemies oi the blacks ; but the people 
are now convinced that while the society has very 
properly been active m seeing the provisions ot the 
law duly executed, by liberating those who have been 
held in bondage at home, contrary to the laws oi the 
state ; and have even by legal process, procured the 
restoration oi others who had been kidnapped and 
sent to the southern states, to New-Orleans, and to 
the West Indies : and have served as a check upon 
the undue severity oi masters: they have at the same 
time always discouraged groundless complaints, and 
hiive given every iacility to the detection of run- 



PRISON SOCIETY. 243 

aways in the state of Pennsylvania, or from other 
states. The venerable Franklin was the first presi- 
dent of this society. The present president is Dr. 
Rush. The active duties of this society fall upon the 
acting committee, consisting of six members. Able 
counsellors are chosen to assist the society, who cheer- 
fully give advice when required. At present there 
are only two slaves in Philadelphia, u'hose attach- 
ment to their masters is so great, as to induce them to 
prefer their situation to uncontrouled freedom. 

Society for Allematmg the Miseries of Public Prisons, 

This society was formed in the year 1787, and 
was proposed by an active citizen in the cause of the 
reformation ol the penal code, in order to alleviate 
some ot the miseries attendant thereon. Their de- 
sign will best appear by the preamble to the consti^- 
tution, viz. 

" When we consider that the obligations of benev- 
olence, which are founded on the precepts and ex- 
amples of the author of Christianity, are not can- 
celled by the follies or crimes of our fellow crea- 
tures : and when we reflect upon the naiseries which 
penury, hunger, cold, unnecessary severity, unwhole- 
some apartments, and guilt (the usual attendants of 
prisons) involve with them; it becomes us to extend 
our compassion to that part oi mankmd, who are the 
subjects of those miseries. By the aid of humanity, 
their undue and illegal sufferings may be prevented, 
the links which should bind the whole family of man- 
kind together, under all circumstances, be preserved 
unbroken : and such degrees and modes of punish- 
ment may be discovered and suggested, as may, m- 
atead of continumg habits of vice, become the means 
of restoring our fellow creatures to virtue and hap- 
piness. From a conviction of the truth and obliga- 



244 PRISON SOCIETY. 

tion of these principles, the subscribers have associil- 
ted themselves under the title of " The Philadelphia 
Society for alleviating the miseries of public pri- 
sons." 

The officers of the society consist of a president, 
two vice-presidents, two secretaries, a treasurer, an 
electing committee of ten, and an acting committee, 
annually chosen. 

The acting committee consists of the president, two 
vice-presidents, and six other members, three of 
v/hom go out at the meetings in January and July. 
It is their duty to visit the prisons at least once a 
month, to inquire into the circumstances of the pri- 
soners, and report such abuses as they shall discover, 
to the proper officers appointed to remedy them; and 
to examine the influence of confinement or punish- 
ment upon the morals of the prisoners. They may 
draw upon the treasurer for such sums of money as 
may be necessary. They keep regular minutes of their 
iproceedings, to be read at every quarterly meeting 
of the society. 

Every member upon his admission contributes one 
dollar, and one dollar annually towards deiraying its 
contingent expenses. 

The appointment of the board of inspectors of the 
prison, and the admirable regulations which have 
been from time to time introduced therein, have ve- 
ry materially lessened the duties oi this society. Ne- 
vertheless they still find occasion for their attention 
among that class of prisoners put in for trial, who 
would suffer in wmter for clothes, and sometimes 
are improperly detained, or from inattention, are not 
brought to trial. 

President — V/illiam White, D. D. 

Vice-Presidents — William Rogers, D. D. Thomas 
Wistar. 

Secretaries — Caleb Cresson,jun. Roberts Vaux*- 

Treasurer-^-lsrael W. Morris. 



MAGDALEN SOCIETY. 245 

There was a society established in the winter of 
1776, under the name of " The Philadelphia Societ}^ 
for assisting distressed prisoners," and it appears 
that a very considerable number of citizens cheer- 
fully became members, who paid a subscription oi 10s: 
and that the managers by an attention to the ne- 
cessities of the prisoners, afforded considerable relief 
to them, during the existence of the society, which 
by a minute on their book, appears to have been 
about nineteen months. 

Magdalen Society^ 

Was instituted in the year 1800. Its objects are 
" to aid in restoring to the paths of virtue ; to be in- 
strumental in recovering to honest rank in life, those 
unhappy females, who have been robbed of their in- 
nocence, and are desirous of returning to a life of 
rectitude." It was incorporated in the year 1802. 
An asylum has been opened near the corner of Sas- 
safras, on Schuylkill Second-street, and several fe- 
males admitted. The members of the society are 
numerous, and the funds annually increasing. 

The following is the report of the managers, for 
1810: 
Remaining in the Asylum at last 

report, • . . . 8 Magdalens^. 

Admitted since, . • . 8 

16 
Of whom. 

Placed out to service, « 7 

Discharged at own request, 1 
Dismissed for improper 

conduct, ..el 
Eloped, . « . 2—11 



Remaining, 



65 

X 2 



692 





133 


884 


22 


8 


69 


86 


94 47 


150 





9 


954 



246 FRIENDS ALMS HOUSfe. 

The expenses of the house, &c. have been as fol- 
lows : 

Board of Magdalens, 

Clothing do. 

Bedding, • 

Firewood, 

Wages of assistant Matron, 

Interest on purchase money for 
the Asylum, 

Incidental charges, 

1162 25 

Amount of purchases for mate- 
rials and machinery in manu- 
facturing, . . • 197 14 

Amount of expenses enlarging 

and improving the Asylum, . 647 34 

Paid for insuring it against fire, . 73 

Paid for books, as commence- 
ment of Library, . . 18 28~^ 

^2098 01 
President — William White, D. D. 
Vice-President— -Robert Ralston. 
Treasurer — John Evans. 
Secretary — ^Thomas Kite. 

Private and Endoxved Institutions, — 1. Friends Alms 

House, 

This establishment is supported by the Society of 
Friends, for the benefit of their own poor. It consists 
of a number of single rooms, opening into a lot 
which i^ appropriated to the cultivation of medicinal 
herbs. Such of the occupants as are able to work, 
diminish the expense of their support by labour of a 
light kind, and contribute much to the convenience 
of the citizens. Silks and feathers, and other articles 
of dressj are there washed: quilting is also neatly 



FEMALE SOCIETIES FOR EMPLOYMENT. 24? 



2. Christ Church Hospital^ 

Is an endowment for aged women of the episco- 
pal church, made by Dr. John Kearsly, formerly an 
eminent physician of Philadelphia ; who bequeathed 
for this purpose, an estate, chiefly landed, which he 
vested in the rector, church wardens and vestry-men 
of the united churches of Christ church and St. Pe- 
ters. 

Since the establishment of this institution, it has 
received a considerable addition of property, by the 
gift of Joseph Dobbins^ a native of Philadelphia ; but 
long resident in South Carolina. Dr. Kearsly's will 
requires that the women supported by this institu- 
tion, shall be supplied with meat, drink, lodging, and 
have medical attendance. There are now 26 women 
on the foundation, which is at 111 Mulberry-street. 

Associations for General Charity — 1. Female Society 
for the Employment oj the Poor. 

This was instituted by the late Ann Parrish, of the 
society of Friends, at the close of the year 1793, 
when a pestilential epidemic had swept off thousands 
of our citizens, leaving many widows with children, 
to struggle with poverty and all its attendant evils. 
The founder of this Society associating herself with 
several friends, sought out the haunts oi wretched- 
ness, comforted the sick, supplied their wants, and 
directed the hand of the industrious to labour. The 
great good produced by their exertions, excited very 
general attention among the benevolent religious so- 
ciety to which they belonged ; and occasioned them 
to form a regular association, to be supported by 
subscription, for the purpose of relieving the wants 
of indigent females during the winter season. 
Aware of the evils attendant upon an indiscriminate 



248 FEMALE SOCIETY FOR EMPLOYMENT 

distribution of money, to those who are able te 
work, the society rented a house, in which they em- 
ploy poor women in spinning wool and flax, and 
conduct business in the following manner. A com- 
mittee of the society attend daily at the " House of 
Industry," the women are required to come early in 
the morning, (with their children) when each is as- 
signed a portion of work : one or more of the in- 
spectors are always present, to preserve decorum, 
and insure attention to business, and to sell the arti- 
cles manufactured. A room is solely appropriated to 
the children, who are committed to the care of one 
woman. The eating room and kitchen are below 
ground, where wholesome food is prepared for 
them ; and when at meals, a becoming propriety of 
conduct is preserved. After the work of the day 
has been finished, one of the committee reads a 
chapter in the Bible to the women, who then return 
to their homes. The women, besides being fed, are 
paid for their labour. The city is divided into dis- 
tricts, and committees for each district are appointed 
to visit the sick, and to administer to their comibrt, 
without regard to colour, at their own houses. These 
committees make regular reports of their proceed- 
ings to the society. Donations oi cash, clothes, 
groceries, winter vegetables, or flour, as may suit the 
circumstances of the benevolent, will be acceptable. 
It is a satisfaction to be assured, that the alms be- 
stowed, will be distributed in the most economical 
and judicious manner. 

2. Female Hospitable Society, 

A society under the above name was formed dur- 
ing the winter of 1808-9: shortly alter the imposi- 
tion of the embargo, when numerous females, who 
obtained a living by the innumerable employments 
directly or indirectly connected with active com- 



FEMALE HOSPITABLE SOCIETY. 249 

merce, were deprived of support. The distresses of 
several of those women coining under the notice of 
some benevolent ladies, they associated for the pur- 
pose of enabling them to maintain themselves; they 
therefore purchased flax, and gave it out to be spun 
into thread for various uses, and hired a ware room. 
A preference is given to married women. The sick 
are supplied with various comforts, and are attend- 
ed by the physician of the society. The city is divided 
into districts ; each of which is allotted to a certain 
number of members, who attend to the sick or af- 
flicted, in the quarter assigned to them. The direct- 
ress of the society attends, with another member, 
every Monday, from 9 till 12 o'clock, at the ware 
room, to receive the work from the women, to pay 
for the same, and to give out more flax. 

This society depends upon subscription for its 
continuance, and has afforded considerable relief to 
many women, who could not partake of the charity 
of the first female society mentioned, by reason of 
not finding it convenient, for various reasons, to leave 
their homes during the day. Donations of money, 
groceries, clothes, flax and wool, are always accept- 
able. The ware room is No. 1, Appletree alley, the 
first alley above Mulberry street, in Fourth. 

Directress — Mrs. Snyder, 321, High street. 

To dwell in praise of such societies is unne- 
cessary. Every intelligent reader will at once see, 
from a mere narration of facts, the immense benefits 
which must inevitably flow from the encouragement 
afforded by these societies, to those who are willing to 
work: from the formation of good habits, or their 
preservation in those already blessed with them, the 
prevention of the numerous evils and temptations 
to theft, and other wickedness, arising from pover- 
ty, and in that sex too whose influence upon the mo- 
rals and manners of society is known to be highly 
extensive. 



X^5()> i;EMALE ASSOCrATION, 



3. Female Association* 

Another humane society was instituted by some 
ladies in the year 1801, by the name of " Female 
Association, for the relief of Women and Children 
in reduced circumstances." Unless in extraordinary 
eases, this relief is to be refused to persons who, 
having children, shall refuse to put such of them as 
are oi a proper age to good trades, or eligible ser- 
vice, or to send them to a charitable school, when in 
their power. In all cases, in which it is practicable, 
relief is given in necessaries rather than in money. 

There are two general meetings in a year, in April 
and November. At the last, 13 directors are cho- 
sen. At each general meeting a report is to be made 
by the directors, of the effects oi the charity. The 
directors meet every lortnightj they annually choose 
a president, and six managers of the charity. They 
reserve, out of all monies belonging to the society, 
at least twenty per centum, to form a fund for the 
security of the charity, which, with any other monies 
or property that may be given, they are to improve 
in the best manner. 

The managers receive such sums from the trea- 
surer, for distribution, as the board of directors may 
order. They are to inquire for proper objects of 
charity, and give them relief ; and are to report to 
the board how they have disposed of the monies put 
into their hands. 

The education of poor children is to be a favourite 
object, whenever the funds will admit. The sub- 
scription is three dollars annually. 

To say how much misery, mental and bodily, this 
society annually relieves, would be to tell what is fa- 
miliar to every person whose inclination prompts to, 



S,UI«5BAY SCHOOL SOCIETY. -251 

©r duty requires an intercourse with the afflicted poor. 
Ail Philadelphia knows and appreciates their services. 

President — Mrs. Stocker, 193, S. Front-street. 

Treasurer — Mrs. Hodge. 

Secretary — Miss Gratz, 258, High-street. 

Free SchoGls-~-'\, Sundaij School Society ^ 

Was instituted in 1791 and incorporated in 1/96. 
Its object is to afford those who cannot go to school 
on week days, an opportunity to learn to read and 
write, on Sunday. Subscribers pay one dollar an- 
nually. Ten dollars entitle a person to membership 
for life. By a late report oi the managers it ap- 
pears, that between 1791 and 1 SOO, there had been ex- 
pended on the education of children, 3968 dollars 
56 cents. The number taught during that time be- 
mg 2127. There were three schools then in opera- 
tion, one for boys, and one for girls, m the city; and 
a third ior boys in Southwark, each containing about 
60 scholars. From want of funds, only one school was 
supported in 1806. In 1808, the school for boys, in 
the city, was resumed, and by the donation oi the 
trustees of John Keble's estate, (about ^2000) a 
third school was opened in the Northern Liberties. 
The utility of the institution has been fully proved. 
Many oi the pupils, who had no other opportunity of 
acquiring the benefit of school learning than that 
which had been presented by this institution, attain- 
ed therein the power of spelling and reading with 
correctness and propriety, and of writing an easy and 
legible hand. Besides which, by attending, at hours 
not interiering with public worship, they are, in a 
great measure, preserved from mispendmg their 
time, and irom acquiring a habit ot idleness. It ap- 
pears Yovci the minutes oi the managers, that some 
of the boys who have attended this school, have since 



252 SOCIETY FOR SUPPORT OF CHARITY SCHOOLS; 

become opulent and respectable members of the 
community. 

The present income of the society is 1^400 50. 

President — Right Rev. William White, D. D. 

2. The Philadelphia Society for the Establishment and 
Support of Charity Schools. 

This society originated in the following way. 

In the year 1 799, a few young men, mostly ap- 
prentices and clerks, with some who had just com- 
menced business, iormed themselves into a society 
under the name of " The Philadelphia Society, for 
the instruction of Indigent Boys." Their number 
did not exceed seven or eight. After obtaining a 
few more associates, they opened a night school, in 
which from twenty to thirty scholars were instructed 
in the rudiments of the English language, by the 
members, who officiated in weekly classes of two. 
This school was kept open during the winters of 
1799 and 1800, and of 1801. The scholars made 
considerable progress. The expense of their tuition 
was inconsiderable. As soon as the labours of the 
society became generally known, a great accession 
of members took place. In the summer of 1801, 
sueh was the zeal and confidence ol the members, 
that they resolved to establish a day school, and 
thereby incur an expense of from 600 to 800 dollars, 
which expense was to be wholly defrayed from the 
contributions of the members. Arrangements were 
making to open in the autumn, when a circumstance 
occurred whxh finally placed the institution beyond 
all danger of failure. Mr. Christopher Ludwick, an 
old and respectable German citizen, died in the 
month of June 1801, leaving the residue of his es- 
tate, which was estimated at §1 0,000 or 12,000, as 
his mite, to the first association of persons who 



SOCIETY FOR SUPPORT OF CHARITY SCHOOLS. 2S$ 

should be incorporated, for the purpose of teachings, 
gratis, the poor of all denominations in the city of 
Philadelphia, the districts of South wark and the 
Northern Liberties, without respect to the country 
or religion of their parents or iriends. As soon as 
the contents of the will became public, several asso- 
ciations were attempted but all gave way, except that 
of the trustees ot the University of Pennsylvania, who 
formed themselves into a society for the purpose al- 
luded to, and applied for a charter, under the provi- 
sions of an act of assembly of this state. A similar 
application was made by the members of the Phila- 
delphia Society, who formed a more perfect constitu- 
tion, and assumed a new name, " The Philadelphia 
Society ibrthe Establishment and Support of Charity 
Schools." The governor (M'Kean) signed both char- 
ters at the same time ; and the Philadelphia Soci- 
ety being first incorporated, became entitled to, and 
received Si 0,000 irom the executors of Mr. Lud- 
v/ick. They further expect to receive, on the death 
of Mrs. L. some real estate, in which she has a life 
interest.^ 

The school is kept in a house, erected on purpose, 
in Walnut street, between Sixth and Seventh : 30 
feet front, and 80 deep : the lot is 48 1-2 by 140. - 



* There was so much active benevolence, and. g-enerous zeal, 
connected with the measure of procuring the charter, that it 
would be unjust to a meritorious individual not to mention the 
facts. As the devise of Mr. Ludwick belonged to the society fii'st 
-incorporated, it became all-important to reach Lancaster first, 
in order to obtain the enrollment of the instrument, until which, 
the act was not complete The trustees of the University hired an 
express rider. The president of the Philadelphia Society, Joseph 
BennetEves, undertook, on behalf of that society, to go to 
Lancaster. Both left Philadelphia at 12 o'clock on the 7th of 
September, 1801- Mr. Eves reached Lancaster (66 miles) in sev- 
en hours. Th€ express gave up the journey, after preceeding 

y 



254 AIMWELL SCHOOL SOCIETY. 



o. Aimxvell School Society. 

The origin of this association is as follows. 

In the year 1796, three young women resolved to 
unite their exertions in instructing a few poor, igno- 
rant and neglected female children, and accordingly 

part of the way. The act of incorporation is dated the 8th of Sep- 
tember, 1801. 

Abstracts from the accounts of the treasurer, and the report 
of the board of managers of the Philadelphia Society, for the es- 
tablishment and support of Charity Schools, fortlie year 1810. 

RECEIPTS. 
In the treasury at commencement of the year, - ^2831 17" 
Contribution of members, . . - - . 1224 10 
Installation of new members, - - „ . l4 

Rent of cellar, under school house, - - . 80 

Do. lot in Kensington, - 12 

Interest of loan office certificate, - - - - 54 15 

Do bonds and mortgages, - - - - - . 568 20 

Dividends of bank stock, 45 

Principal of bonds and mortgages, ... 1733 33 

6561 96 
PAYMENTS. 
Lent on mortgage, - ... - 3100 
Enlarging school house, - - - - 1264 39 

EXPENSES OF SCHOOL, viz. 
Salaries of two teachers, - - loOO 

incidental, for books and stationary, 153 50 

1453 50 

Ground occupied by C Ludwick's tomb, 

Gerniantown, - - - - - - 20 

Insurance, - - 57 24 

Commissions to collector of contributions, - 41 95 
liepairs to building and contingencies, - 73 35 

Etectine- an air heater, - - - - 6(j 28 

^ 3071 41 



Baianceintreasury, January 1, 1811, ^490 55 



AIMAYELL SCHOOL SOCIETY. 2^$ 

Opened a small school room, in which some of the 
most useful branches of learning were taught, viz. 
sewing, reading, writing, and arithmetic. In the 
course of the first year several joined the little as- 
sociation, and thus the school was maintained for 
more than two years : by that time it had so much 
increased, that it was judged necessary to hire a 



CAPITAL STOCK. 
United States converted six per centj 
Farmers and Mechanics Bank, 10 shares, 
Bonds and Mortgages, - . _ 

Schuylkill permanent bridge, 5 shares, 
Philadelphia library, 1 share, 



903 17 


700 


8282 40 


50 


40 



^9975 57 



REAL ESTATE. 
A lot of ground in Kensington, rented at twelve dollars per 
annum * School house and lot of ground in Walnut street, actual 
cost, ^10460 14 The number of members now belonging to the 
society is 228, each of whom pay 5 dollars per annum, towards 
the support of the school. 

The legacies received by 'the society have all been invested 
in productive stock and real estate ; and are as follows, viz. 
From Christopher Ludwick's estate, - - - ^103 40 
JohnKeble's do. - - - - 3000 

Thomas Kinsey's do. _ _ - 160 

Catharine Zimminnan's do. •■ - - - 106 67 
Buth Garland's do. . - - 100 

Mary Cannon's do. - . - - 66 46 

^13,773 13 
STATE OF THE SCHOOL. 

There were under the care of the institution, at the commence- 
ment of the year, - . . _ . 278 bojs 
Discharged during' the year .- - - 181 



Admitted do. . _ „ . - 

Remaining in school, 

* Part of this lot was a donation of John Dickinson, esq. fate 
of Wilmington, (Delaware) deceased. 



i^S AIMWELL SCHOOL SOCIETY. 

person to take charge of the sewing; the members 
still continuing to attend to all the other business of 
the school. At the end of twelve years, a writing 
master was employed under the direction of the so- 
ciety, the members of which visit it almost daily; 
and in case of the absence of either of the teachers, 
fVom sickness or otherwise, supply the vacancy. 

From the year 1798 to 1800, the number of scho- 
lars was limited to fifty : since that period, sixty-five 



Of whom 109 can read, write and cipher — nearly all of thetn 
liavhig" received the whole of their education in the Seminary. 

The 181 discharged were chiefly apprenticed — 81 of them 
could read, write and cipher. 

The expense of tuition this year, amounted to ^5 81 each, (5n 
the average number of scholars. 

There have been 752 boys admitted into the school, since tile 
incorporation of the society, September 8, 1801. 

When two teachers were employed, the board had in con- 
templation a larger number of scholars, but finding in the course 
of the year, that one teacher would be fully competent to the 
care of all that' had been admitted, the services of the other 
have been dispensed with; and, as the salaries of the teachers 
formed the priiicipal items in the expenses of the school, this 
diminution will reduce the amount of tuition to less than ^3 50 
per annum for each scholar, the year ensuing. 

It is coutempiated to open a school for girls, in the room 
lately occupied by the boys, as soon as suitable superintendents 
can be procured. 

Children of the poor, of all denominations, in the city of Phi- 
I'adelphia, district of Soutliwark, and the Northern Liberties, 
without respect to the country or religion of their parents or 
friends, are objects of the care of the institution, and may be 
admitted on application to the teacher at the school house in 
Walnut street; or to either of the members of the Board of 
?*lansgers. 

Donations, in aid of the funds, may be made to either of the 
members of the Board 

Published by order of the Societv. 

THOMAS BRADFORD, President. 
JOSEPH R. KAMMERER, Vice President, 
BENJAMIN WILLIAMS, Treasurer. 
STEPHEN NORTH, Secretary. 



PHILADELPHIA UNION SOCIETY. 23T 

have been constantly instructed. Many are always 
waiting for vacancies. Any who ai'e unable to pay 
for their instruction, are considered suitable objects 
for the school, and none are rejected on account of 
their religious profession, although no " Friend's 
children," have ever partaken of its benefits. 

This association under the title of " The Society 
lor the free Instruction of Female Children," con- 
sists generally of eighteen members, who raise a sum 
annually, among themselves, towards the support of 
the school; which, with a few occasional donations, 
were all the means they had for carrying it on for 
several years : but an annual subscription is now 
opened for the purpose, the amount of which, how- 
ever, is only sufficient to defray about one halT the 
expense, not including rent, (a school room having 
been granted, free of charge, by the Society of 
Friends.) The school is now kept in the Friends > 
school house, south Fourth street. 

4. Philadelphia Union Society^ 

Was formed in 1804, and "owes its origin to two 
female societies, the members oi v/hich belonged to 
the second and third Presbyterian Churches in Phi° 
ladelphia, and who associated for pious purposes. 
In addition to their personal improvement, they were 
desirous of adopting some plan by which they might 
be serviceable to their fellow creatures, and promote 
especially their religious interests. Under the in- 
fluence of these sentiments, it was resolved to endea- 
vour to establish a school for the instruction of poor 
female children." This was opened in January 1805,. 
and children of all sects were admitted. A iemale 
teacher was appointed to take charge of the school, - 
and a committee of twelve members was appointed'. 
to attend with the teacher, not only for the purpose 

Y. 3 



258 ST, JOSEPH'S SOCIETY. 

of assisting in the discharge of her ordinary duties, 
but to aid in inculcating sentiments oi piety and vir- 
tue, an essential part of the design of the institution* 
Sixty children were in a short time received into the 
school. 

The institution depends upon subscription of one 
dollar annually, and upon occasional donations and 
legacies, for its support. Of the latter it has received 
two, one of ^266 66, from the estate of the late 
Miss Ann Smith, one of the original founders of the 
societv, and another of ^200^ from the late Miss E- 
C. Biidd. 

The school is now held back of the Second Pres*- 
byterian church. 

More than 300 children have been taught to read, 
write and sew ; have committed to memory large 
portions of holy Scripture, many devout hymns, and 
have been instructed in such catechism as was most 
jtpproved of by their parents. 
" In 1805-^6 and 7, the receipts were $1576 11 

Expenses 1174 34 



;g401 77 

The society was incorporated in 1808. Its title 
is, " The Philadelphia Union Society, for the Edu- 
cation of Poor Female Children." 

President— -Mrs. M. M^Mullin, 114, S. Front st. 

Secretary — -Miss H, Ord, 354, do. 

Treasurer — -Miss Eliza Hall, 71, High street* 

5; St, yoseph^s Society. 

This society is composed of members of the Ro=' 
aian Catholic persuasion, and was instituted not only 
for educating, but maintaining poor orphan children* 
It was incorporated in 1 807, 



ADELPHI SCHOOL. 259 

The capital is ^4,397 90. Fifteen orphan children 
were clothed, schooled, and relieved while sick, dur- 
ing the year ending the 19th of March last, 1811. 

President — Right Rev. Bishop Egan. 

Vice President— «Edward Carrell. 

Treasurer — James O'Ellers. 

Secretary — J. Maitland. 

6. Adelphi School. 

This establishment was formed in 1807; and the 
society incorporated in 1808, under the title of " The 
Philadelphia Association of Friends, for the Instruc- 
tion of Poor Children." 

The plan of instruction is that of Lancaster, but 
improved. 

The corporation consists of no more than 45 per- 
sons, and they must be of the society of Friends. 

The affairs of the society are managed by twelve 
directors, a treasurer and clerk, appointed annually. 
The managers superintend the schools, provide for 
their accommodation, and employ teachers.^ 

The school opened on the 11th of January, 1808* 
In settling the mode of conducting the school, much 
information was obtained in consequence of a visit 
paid by several of the members, with the tutor, to a 
school of the same kind previously established in the 
city of New York, and from reading Lancaster's 
book. The school is now held in a house, 70 feet 
front by 35 feetdeep, and is calculated to contain, in 
two rooms, 600 schoJars. The number at present 
(July 1811) is about 200, whose progress will bear 
a comparison with that of other schools. It is calcu- 
lated that the annual expense of the school, including 
teacher's salary, fire wood, stationary, &c. will 
amount to the sum of 1200 dollars, or at the rate of 
four dollars a year for each scholar. This calculation,, 



ADELPHI SCHOOL 

however, is founded upon the supposition of the full 
compliment of pupils being made up, to wit, 300. No 
children under five, nor more than thirteen years old^ 
are taken. Those who choose to pay for their chil- 
dren, may have them admitted upon paying one 
4ollar for each child, quarterly. Subscribers paying 
four dollars annually, or upwards, are authorised to 
recommend any number of suitable objects, who will 
be taken on the lists of applicants, and admitted ac- 
cording to priority, as vacancies occur. Fifty dollars 
entitle a person to the privilege of an annual contri- 
butor for life. 

The managers avoid inculcating particular tenets 
of religion : " but enforce, with all reasonable and 
practicable assiduity, the laws of morality, and 
obligations of virtue:" and though they consider 
themselves enjoined to embrace every suitable occa- 
sion to imbue the minds of the children, with a just 
and solemn sense of their religious duties, as derived 
from the gospel, yet it is their design to confine 
themselves to its mo&t obvious truths, according to 
their generally received acceptation. The Bible is. 
the only religious book taught in the school. 

The school is built upon part of two lots in Peg's 
street, Northern Liberties, presented to the society 
by William Sansom and Thomas Scattergood. 

The association have published, " A Sketch of the 
Origin and Progress of the Adelphi School," con- 
taining also rules for its government, bye laws, 
names of contributors, and a sketch of the mode of 
education adopted in the school, which may be had 
by application to any of the managers. 

Managers-— John Paul, John C. Evans, David 
Jones, Clement Biddle, jun. Isaac Donaldson, Sa- 
muel Haydock, James P« Parke^ Roberts Vaux, 



VARIOUS FREE SCHOOLS, 261 

Reuben Haines, Charles Allen, Robert Smith, jun^ 
Benjamin Ferris. 

Roberts Vaux, Secretary to the Board. 

James P. Parke, Recorder of Admissions. 

Treasurer — John Cooke. 

Clerk of the Association — Elihu Pickering. 

Besides the above schools for the gratuitous edu- 
cation Oi poor children, there are a number of other 
schools, belonging to different religious societies. 
Thus, the Friends have several schools belonging 
to their corporation,^^ from the foundation of which, 
part of their funds have been devoted to the free 
education of poor children of all denominations. For 
many years past, and at present, one hundred scho- 
lars annually, of that description, derive the benefit 
of its patronage. 

The funds of the school corporation have been in- 
creased by the bequests of several members of the 
society; among whom, the late alderman Carter de*- 
serves to be particularly noticed. 

The United Episcopal Churches have one free 
school, consisting of 60 boys; and one, of about 40 
girls. The second Presbyterian Church has one 
free school. The German Lutherans have six schools, 
in some of which boys and girls are taught together, 
and in some separately. The German language is 
taught in all, and the catechism of the church com- 
mitted to memory; in some arithmetic is taught. 
An academy for teaching the learned languages was 
lately commenced by that society. The German Cal- 
vinists, or Reformed Church, have two schools ; and 
the Catholics have two schools ; in all of which, poor 
children, in membership with the several religious 
societies, are educated gratis. The University of 

■ ■ ■ — «»<- 

» '« Friend's Public Schools^ founded by charter of Wm. P^nUj 
m the town and county of Philadelphia, 169?'/' 



^&2 SCHOOLS FOR BLACKS. 

Pennsylvania also, has had a charitable school con^-' 
nected with that institution, since its toundation. 

Public Provision for Free Education, 

By a law, passed April 4, 1809, by the legislature 
of Pennsylvania, the poor were permitted to send their 
children to the most convenient school. The teacher 
of which is to present his bill to the county commis- 
sioners, w^ho if they approve thereof, shall draw an 
order for the same upon the county treasurer for the 
amount. The price to be charged is to " be agreeably 
to the usual rates of charging lor tuition in the said 
school." 

In the counties of the state, where the terms o^f 
tuition are moderate, this law has been found useful, 
but in Philadelphia, where the poor are numerous^ 
and the price ol teaching in some schools is high, 
the tax upon the city and county has been found 
e-normously oppressive, and the law by no means 
productive of good proportioned thereto, as the fol- 
lowing facts will shew. From the 1st of January to 
July 27, 1811, 1828 scholars have been educated, 
at an expense of !Bl2,124, 27, which is at the rate of 
^11, 63 per scholar annually, vfhile the expense of the 
charity school, in Walnut street, is only B5 81, and 
that of the Adelphi School is S4 per year. 

Schools for the Education of Blacks, 

The following schools have been instituted for the 
free education of blacks. 

In the year 1770, a school was established by the 
monthly meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, under 
the tuition of a master, and superintended by a 
committee of said meeting. It was for many years 
supported by the voluntary contributions of Friends* 



SCHOOLS FOR BLACKS. 263 

Anthony Benezet, who served several years on the 
committee, and who had the charge of this school, 
became so interested in its behal^^, that in the year 
1782, he took upon him the tuition thereof, and con- 
tinued in that situation until his death, (the 3d of 
May, 1784) and by his last will and testament be- 
queathed a large sum towards its further support. 
In September, 1784, another school was opened by 
the committee, under the tuition of a mistress, both 
which schools have been continued to this time, and 
are at present under the care oi a joint committee, 
appointed by the three monthly meetings of Friends 
in this city. The present income of this institution 
is principally vested in ground rents, amounting to 
rather more than 650 dollars, annually, out of which 
a considerable sum is paid for taxes. The average 
number of scholars attending in the two schools, is 
between 70 and 80. The boys are taught reading, 
writing and arithmetic : and the girls, reading, wri- 
ting and sewing. The schools are held in Willing's 
alley. 

Tw^o schools, one for boys, and one for girls, are 
supported out of the funds left to the late Dr. Bray, 
and to the trustees of his charity.* Ten negro boy^, 
and about 50 girls are constantly educated. In the 
school with the boys, there are also thirty pay scho- 
lars under the same master. 

The Alrican church of St. Thomas has a school, 
nn which forty pay scholars are instructed by a 



* The trustees in Philadelphia, of " the associates of Dr. Bray, 
in London," are the Rev. Dr. White, Rev. Dr. Blackwell, and 
Thomas Cumpston, Esq. (See An Account of the designs of the 
Associates of the late Dr. Bray, with an Abstract of their pro- 
ceedings, London IBOO.) The sum originally remitted, after the 
peace of 1783, was £500. By time and judicious manageni nt, 
this sum has so increased, that ;^460 have been returned ■," the 
trustees in London, and enough still retained for the puiposes 
designed, by the donors* 



^54 DOMESTIC SOCIETY. 

black teacher. The " Union Society,"* has also a 
school in which 40 boys are instructed, by a white 
teacher. Another school is kept by a coloured man, 
an which there are upwards of 40 boys, who pay. 

Patriotic Societies — 1. Domestic Society^ 

Was established in the year 1805, for the encou- 
ragement of domestic manufactures. The capital 
Stock consists of ten thousand dollars, divided into 
two hundred shares of fifty dollars. By charter, li- 
berty is given to increase the capital to ^50,000. 
The ajffairs of the society are managed by a presi- 
dent, secretary, treasurer, and twelve directors, 
elected on the first Monday in February of every 
year. The treasurer must give a bond for the :a'th- 
ful performance of his duty. The directors are au- 
thorised to lay out the funds, to regulate the affairs 
of the society generally, to make advances either in 
cash or raw materials, as shall suit the applicants, upon 
all American manufactures o^ woollen, cotton or li- 
nen, amounting to one hall of the affixed value oi the 
articles, when deposited in the ware house of the 
society, and pay the residue when sold, charging and 
deducting therefrom legal interest, for the time the 
money may remain in advance upon the goods, and 
such a commission as shall be affixed by the board on 
effecting the sales. This has been fixed at 5 per cent. 
Ir the articles deposited remain six months on hand, 
the board may then sell them at auction, and the 
neat proceeds duly placed to the credit of the own- 
ers. The directors may purchase raw materials. 
The board meet once in two weeks : other articles 



* ''The U'oJon Society for the support of schools and domestic 
snan-ifaclures, ibr thr benefit of the African race, and people af 
colour, established 1810," 



DOMESTIC SOCIETY, 261 

besides those mentioned, may be received and sold 
on commission, but no advances are made on them. 
They may be withdrawn upon paying storage. 
The treasurer shall deliver a general statement of 
the funds of the institution, once every month, at a 
regular meeting of the board. Shares are transferra- 
ble, upon paying twenty-five cents for the certificate. 
No transfers shall entitle any one to a vote, unless 
made at least thirty days prior to the day of election. 
The board shall, at least twenty days prior to the 
expiration of the term for which they are elected, 
call a general meeting of the stockholders, and lay 
before them a full statement of the funds of the so- 
ciety. Stockholders must be citizens of the United 
States. 

Monies are to be paid only upon the order of the 
president, countersigned by the secretary. The 
society is incorporated by the legislature of Penn- 
sylvania. 

President — -Paul Cox. Warehouse, No. 11, south 
Third street. 

Money is lent to manufacturers on good notes, up- 
on legal interest ; and in this way the society has 
done a great deal of good. When established, it 
was ascertained, that five hundred weavers could not 
find employment, and to obtain a living were forced 
to engage in other work : by assistance from the so- 
ciety all are employed ; the dividends have yielded 
to the stockholders six per cent, and sometimes eight 
per cent., but interest was but a secondary conside- 
ration v/ith the subscribers. Every city and populous 
town should establish a similar society, as it is only 
in this way, that the permanent, the real indepen- 
dence of the country, can be established, and our 
workmen and money kept at home. 



?66 AGRICULTURAL AND CATTLE SOCIETIES. 



2. Agricultural Society* 

" This society was formed in the year 1785, by 
some citizens, only a few of whom were actually 
engaged in husbandry, but who were convinced of 
•its necessity, and of the assistance which such an 
association, properly attended to, would afford to 
the interests of agriculture. The society continued 
to meet regularly for several years, and published 
numerous communications from practical men, in 
the newspapers of the day, on various interesting 
subjects; and thereby contributed to diffuse the know- 
ledge of many improvements in agriculture ; the 
general adoption whereof, has visibly tended to in- 
crease the product, and to improve the qualities of 
the soil of Pennsylvania. 

" After several years of active exertion, the so- 
ciety was permitted to fall into a long sleep, but was 
again revived, in the winter of 1 804, and holds re- 
gular meetings."^ It was incorporated in February 
1 809. Two volumes of Memoirs, in 8vo, have been 
published; the first in 1808: the second during the 
present year.f The society meet in the philosophic^ 
hall, the 2d Tuesday of every month. 

president— Richard Peters. 

Vice President — George Clymer. 

Treasurer — Samuel Hodgdon. 

Secretary — James Mease, M. D. 

3. Cattle Society » 

This society was instituted in the year 1809, 
fdr improving the breed of cattle, in Pennsylvania, 
by several persons concerned in grazing, and resid- 



* Preface to Memoirs of the Society, vol. 1. 
J By Johnson and Warner. 



CARPENTER'S COMPANY. 2^T 

ing in and near Philadelphia. They have published 
an address to the public, explaining the object of the 
association, and have proposed several premiums, 
for importing certain improved breeds of cattle 
from Europe, and. for originating them at home. 
Two premiums have already been taken, one for 
.^100; the other for SoO. 

Shows are held every spring and autumn at Bush- 
hill, (which has been leased by the society) for 
the exhibition and sale of every species of farm 
stock ; poor, fat, and those destined for breeding. 

President— Lawrence SeckeL 

Treasurer— Wm. Guier. 

The good effects of this society have already been 
perceived. It meets the first Monday in every 
month, in the philosophical hall. 

Mutual Benefit Societies-^l, Carpenter' s Company. 

In the year 1724, a number of house carpenters of 
the city and county of Philadelphia, formed them- 
selves into a company, tor the double purpose of 
obtaining instruction in the science of architecture, 
and of assisting such of their members as should 
by accident be in need of support, or the widows and, 
minor children of members. They remained unin- 
corporated until the year 1790, when they obtained 
a charter by an act of the legislature. The corpora- 
tion meets on the third Monday of January, April, 
July and October, and on the same day of the v/eek^ 
in the same months, in every year at their hall, oi; 
other appointed place. A committee of seven, an- 
nually chosen, manage the affairs of the corporation. 
They may let their hall, or other estate of the corpo- 
ration, for any term not exceeding two years: keep 
the buildings in repair, and settle the accoimts of the 
company % one of them collects the rents, and re- 



263 SHIP MASTER'S SOCIETY^ 

ceives the members money from the wardens, ot 
whom there are three. Members, widows, or minor 
ohiidren, in want or in sickness, may receive from 
the committee any sum under forty dollars, until the 
next meeting ; when if further aid be deemed ne- 
cessary, the company determine the amount. The 
admission money is forty dollars. Sons of deceased 
members are admitted without a fee. 

No members may under(;ake work, begun by 
other members, until the first undertaker is satisfied 
for the work done, unless by his or their consent, 
under penalty of paying such sum as a majority of 
the members may judge reasonable. Provision is 
made for obliging members to do justice to an em- 
ploj^er; and for the settlement of disputes. No slaves 
are to be hired or taken as apprentices. Ten dollars 
is the fine for divulging the sentiments of members 
when discussing a question, and five dollars for 
shewing the book of prices to any except a member ; 
for the second offence ten dollars, and for permit- 
ting a copy to be taken, the member is expelled. 

The children of members deceased, (with the ap- 
probation of the widow, if one be left,) are protected 
by the society, and bound out to such trades as 
may suit their situation or dispositions. This society 
own a hall where the custom house is now kept, 
in a court south of Chesnut street, between Third 
and Fourth streets, and a range of buildings in the 
same court. The hall was built before the revolution- 
ary war. 

President—George Ingles. 

2. Ship Master"^ s Society, 

A society for the relief of poor and distressed 
masters of ships, their widows, and children," was 
instituted in the year 1765, ancl incorporated in the 
year 1770, by the colonial legislature. 



SHIP MASTER'S SOCIETY, 269 

There are twelve managers, and a treasurer an- 
nually chosen ; a statement of the accounts is pub- 
lished every year.^ 

Entrance money, forty dollars : quarterly con- 
tribution, fifty cents. The president is chosen every 
three months. The assistance to widows of de- 



* Abstractor the accounts of the Society, "For the relief of poor 

and distressed Masters of Ships, their Widows and Children," 

being- a summary of the receipts and payments, from the 30th 

April, 1810, to the 30th April, 1811, as settled by a committee 

of the society, specially appointed for that purpose. 

CASH DR.— 

TO Balance in the hands of the Treasurer, April 30th, 

1810, - - - . . ' 

Quarterly payments and fines received. 

Subscription of new members. 

Donation from the post office, 

Interest and part of the principal of the United 

States stock, . . . - 

Dividends from the Banks, 
Dividends from the Turnpike, 
City loan Interest, and a part of the principal. 
Donation, . - - . - 

Principal and Interest of I O— — 's bond and 

mortgag-e, . „ _ - - 

Principal of exchang-e stock, - . - 

interest on Bonds, - - _ - - 



CR.— 

BY Charities paid sundry persons, 

~^ Cash for stock, . - - . 

Manag-ers orders on account of stock, 
Ditto ditto Contingent fund. 

Balance in the hands of the Treasurer, Charities, 
Ditto - - - Contingent fund. 

Ditto ^ - - Stock, 



SAMUEL VOLANSj Treasurer. 
Philadelphia, May, I81t 

z 2 



g503 83 


418 30 


155 20 


314 32 


1435 51 


734 — 


72 — 


254 — 


263 38 


537 — 


1000 — 


106 — 



g5793 54 


g2024 — 


2815 6% 


182 34 


56 7 


434 97 


196 23 


83 95 


^7935 40 



270 PILOrS^-MARINER'S— AND STONE CUTTEITS:. 

ceased members, is in proportion to their wants j 
the smallest sum that can be given is forty dollars 
annually. Funeral expenses of members are paid if 
required. Orphan children of deceased members 
are taken care of by the society, until fit to be put 
t® trades. 

3. PUofs Society* 

A society for the benefit of " decayed pilots, their 
widows and children," was formed in the year 1/88, 
and incorporated in the year 1789. Its affairs are 
managed by twelve members, chosen from Phila- 
delphia, Cape Henlopen, and Cape May ; a general 
meeting of the society takes place twice a year. 
Members pay ^1, 50, annually : and the treasurer 
annually publishes a statement of the funds. Wi^ 
Slows of members may receive 3^60 annually. 

The capital of the society is about ^8,000. 

Treasurer — Stephen Flanagan. 

4. Mariner^s Society, 

Entrance money, five dollars ; monthly payments, 
thirty-one cents ; allowance to sick, three dollars 
weekly ; to members wives at the decease of their 
husbands, twenty dollars, and thirty three cents from 
each member. If a member die abroad, his widow 
jeceives only thirty-three cents from each member^ 

President—George Chart. 

Vice President — John Dick« 

S'eeretary — John Bisset. 

5. Stone Cutter^s Company^ 

Was established in the year 1790, and incorpo» 
rated in 1806, until which time the sole object of its 
associsction was^ from time to time, tD regulate the 



MASTER BRICK LAYER^S SOCIETY., ^1 

measurement and prices of stone work, and other 
general concerns, an inattention to which, had caus- 
ed much gross imposition to be practised upon the 
public. Its views are now more comprehensive, 
being " formed ior the relief of poor and distressed 
stone cutters, their widows and children ; and for 
the improvement of the art of stone cutting, and 
of the science of architecture." A system for the 
measurement of marble work is laid down, and a 
list of prices formed, subject to alterations and ad- 
ditions, as the prices of labour and materials may re- 
quire. The bye laws provide for the relief of mem- 
bers employed by those who will not appoint a per- 
son to measure and value for them, and when a mem- 
ber will not consent to have his work measured. They 
also contain a provision expressly intended to defend 
the public from imposition by work of a bad quality, 
or from injury by unreasonably delaying to execute 
it. Application for redress in such cases is to be made 
to the president of the company. 

The system of measurement and prices are not kept 
secret : every person desiring it, may have a bill of 
particulars, stating minutely the measurement and 
prices of each article, upon paying an additional 
measuring commission, for the extra trouble. En- 
trance money is ten dollars. Annual contribution 
four dollars. 

It is contemplated to establish an architectural 
library, with such models and moulds as may be 
worthy of preservation. 

President— John Miller, M. C. 

6* Master Bricklayer^s Society » 

Incorporated, 1809. It was instituted upon the 
plan of the Stone Cutter's Society j as a benefit asso- 



f 



2r2 TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. 

elation, and to measure work. Besides the Hsual 
officers, there are twelve measurers of work. 
President — John Taylor. 

7. Mutual Assistant Society of Hair Dressers^ Surgeon 
Barbers^ ^c, 

Thissociety was Instituted and incorporated in 1 796. 
Members pay ten dollars admission fee, and thirty 
seven and a half cents, monthly, into the common 
stock, and twelve and a half cents towards defraying 
expenses of the regular meetings, which are monthly. 
Members must be twenty-one years old, and not 
above forty-one years. Weekly allowance to members, 
four dollars ; his customers are also to be attended. 
The stewards appoint the member to attend the cus- 
tomers of the sick. At the death of a member, wi- 
dows or friends receive forty dollars, within one 
week after his decease. 

President' — John Murdock. 

8. Typographical Society^. 

One of the last acts of the life of the venerable 
Franklin, was to assist in the organization of a be- 
nefit society of Journeymen Printers, who held their 
meetings during his life time at his house. This 
society was dissolved in the year 1795. In the year 
1802, another was instituted, and incorporated in 
1810, under the name of the " Philadelphia typo- 
graphical Society." It was formed not only upon the 
principle of mutual benefit, but also to equalise the 
price of labour, and thus to prevent imposition tak- 
ing place upon the journeyman and employer. It 
meets monthly, and is managed by the usual officers, 
chosen annually ; and twelve directors, who divids 
themselves into four classes, the members of which 
hold their offices during the term of one, two, three. 



TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. 273 

and four months; so that at every monthly meeting 
there may be an election of three directors. The 
secretary is appointed by the president and the di- 
rectors. No persons are eligible as members, who 
are not citizens of Pennsylvania, and who shall not 
have served an apprenticeship satisfactory to the 
board of directors, to whom he may make application 
in person. Besides entrance money, the amount of 
which is discretionary with the board of directors, 
twenty five cents are paid monthly, until he has been 
ten years a member, or be rendered incapable, by 
sickness or otherwise, to pay. Neglecting to pay for 
three months deprives a member of a vote, and of 
any benefit from the society. After one year's defal- 
cation, he ceases to be a member. Neglect to pay 
fines or forfeitures for three months, deprives a 
member of a vote. Persons actually sick, or absent, 
are excused. Thirty dollars being paid on admis- 
sion, is considered equal to ten years monthly sub- 
scription. Three dollars, but no more, per week are 
allowed to any sick member. If absent and sick, the 
money is remitted to him, upon proper certificates 
being forwarded to the president ; but he must have 
belonged six months to the society, or be a stranger 
and in absolute distress, to entitle him to that relief. 
Twenty-five dollars are allowed in case of the deatli 
of a member. 

The members deem themselves bound to procure 
employment for one another in preference to those 
not belonging to the society ; hence there is no ex- 
cuse for a single member to be idle, and so much 
celebrity has this society obtained, that employers, 
not only in the city, but in all parts of the United 
States, when in want of good workmen, apply to the 
president to recommend them. The annual income 
of the real estate of the society is not to exceed five 



^74> MASTER TAYLOR'S, ANB PROTIDENT SOCIETY. 

hundred pounds. Their personal estate, at present, 
amounts to about sixteen hundred dollars. Members 
are dispersed through every part of the union. 
President— Horatio Boate. 

9. Master Taylor-^, 

Incorporated, 1805. Admission money, seven dol- 
lars. Stated meetings, second Monday in January, 
April, July, and October; at each meeting every 
member is to pay twenty-five cents. Funeral ex- 
penses of poor members are defrayed by the society. 
None but those who have been members two years, 
are entitled to pecuniary aid from the society, except 
in the case of funeral expenses. Members neglecting 
to pay fines or contributions, for one year, after due 
notice, forfeit their right to the benefits of the 
society. 

President — Benjamin Thaw. 

10. Provident Society of House Carpenters* 

Incorporated 1809. The members must be between 
twenty-one and forty-one years, healthy, and of good 
morals. Admission fee, two dollars. The stated meet- 
ing's are on the third Tuesday of every month. 
Monthly payments, thirty-one and a quarter cents. 
The secretary must notify members of their fines, or 
pay the amount himself. A visiting committee, 
transact the business relative to the sick ; visit wi- 
dows and orphans of deceased members, and report 
their wants to the society. Sick members must be 
visited in twenty-four hours after receiving a notice 
of their illness ; if entitled to relief they must inform 
the president, after one week, who orders payment 
of the stipulated sum. The visiting committee are 
required to visit the widows of members, in conf- 



uVlASTER MECHANIC'S SOCIETY. 27B 

pany with the president, at least once in three 
months. Thirty dollars are allowed upon the death 
of a member, and fifteen dollars in case of that of 
his wife ; and at the next meeting ensuing, each 
member contributes twenty-five cents, or twelve and 
a half cents, either as a member or his wife ma,y 
have died. Weekly allowance to sick, three dollars. 
President — Thomas Wood. 

11. Master Mechanic's Benevolent Society^ 

Was instituted in the year 1810. Candidates for 
membership must have been master mechanics, at 
least two years previously to their application for 
admission ; be twenty-three years old, and recom- 
mended by two members. Members pay ten dollars 
on admission. The society meets five times yearly ,; 
and pay four dollars annually, by installments of one 
dollar. No person may be eligible to any office, until 
he has been twelve months a member. The visiting 
committee, consisting of five, transact all business 
relative to sick members, report their situation to 
the president, and carry the money he orders, to 
them. Two of the committee visit him once during 
his sickness. In case of death, report is made to the 
society of the situation of the widow and children^ 
their names and ages. Children educated by the 
society are under the care of the committee, wh© 
provide schools and visit them once in three months ; 
and at a proper age, wuth consent of their friends, 
provide suitable places for them. They also carry to 
the widow her quarterly allowance, and assist her 
by advice, if required. The fund committee receive 
all monies of the society, and pay them to the trea- 
surer. The president and four of the committee 
must sign orders for money. Three hundred dollars 
must always be left in the treasurer's hands for in- 
cidental expenses. Thirty dollars are allowed for 



576 PROVIDENT SOCIETY. 

funeral expenses of a member, if the situation o{ 
his widow or children require help: not more than 
one hundred dollars are to be paid to any widow, 
annually. 

Similar societies are instituted by the Cordwainers, 
whose capital is fifteen hundred dollars. By the 
Journeymen Blacksmiths ; Journeymen Taylors have 
two, viz. the Union and Philadelphia Benevolent; 
Hatters ; Journeymen Bricklayers ; for aged and 
infirm Master Coopers, their widows and children ; 
and by the Journeymen Coopers. In all, seventeen. 

Other Mutual Benefit Societies. 
These are numerous and annually increasing. 

1. Provident Society ^ 

Was instituted in 1793, and incorporated in 1796. 
Candidates must be 21 years of age, healthy and of 
good morals, and on admission, pay a sum agreeably 
to their ages, as follows ; If between twenty-one and 
thirty years, ^15; between thirty and thirty-five, 
^X7 ; between thirty-five and forty, ^19; if above 
forty years, ^20. The society meet five times a year, 
and pay four dollars annually in installments of one 
dollar. Three dollars are allowed, weekly, to sick 
members, after they have belonged to the society for 
twelve months. Distant sick members may receive the 
allowance upon sending forward a certificate of their 
situation. A fund committee, collect all monies due 
to the society, and pay them to the treasurer; and 
draw upon him for such sums as they may agree to 
invest, or dispose of as may be most conducive to the 
interest of the societv. One hundred dollars are al- 
ways to be left in the hands of the treasurer. In case 
af the death of a member, twenty dollars are ad- 



PHILANTHROPIC, AND COLUMBIAN SOCIETIES, m 

vanced to defray expenses of funeral, and the same 
sum is to be paid to his widow, annually, while sin- 
gle. When the society's funds are more than three 
hundred dollars, orphans are clothed and educated, 
under the direction of the visiting committee, who 
with the president, are to visit the schools once in 
every three months. By a report, lately published, of 
the state of this society, it appears that the funds 
amount to nearly ^2,500. The number of members 
is 103. From the 3d of April, 1795, to April, 1811, 
^992 have been disbursed among fifty -two sick mem- 
bers; and ^2,251 among thirty-two widows ; of this 
number, twelve are at present entitled to the benefit 
of the society ; and several of their children are aid- 
ed in their clothing and schooling. 
President-^Liberty Browne. 

2. The Philanthropic Society^ 

Was also instituted in 1793, and incorporated in 
1799. Entrance money %5\ quarterly dues, one dollar; 
allowance to sick, three dollars ; in case of the death 
of a member, twenty dollars are paid to defray the 
expenses of his funeral. If a member's wife die, he 
receives ^14. On the death of a member, the survi- 
ving members contribute one quarter of a dollar each, 
to be paid to the widow, children or parents, if 
there be any. 

President — John Dennis* 

,o. Columh'ian Benevolent Society. 

Instituted 1804. All well known, healthy citizens 
of Pennsylvania, are eligible ; but they must not be 
older than forty years, and not younger than twenty- 
three. Five stewards aitend to the applications of the 

A a 



-2/8 VARIOUS BENEFIT SOCIETIES. 

sick. Monies are paid by the treasurer, upon an 
order from^he stewards, to be approved oi by the 
president, vice president, and signed by the secretary. 
Allowance to sick members, two dollars weekly ; 
twenty dollars in case ot death of a member, and 
25 cents from each member to his widow. If the 
wife of a member die, he receives fifteen dollars. 

The following Benefit Societies also exist in Phi- 
ladelphia. 

4. American Beneficial Society. 105 members. 

5. St. Tammany Benevolent Society. 

6. Northern Liberty Benevolent Society. 
74 Union Beneficial Society. 

8. Philanthropic Society. 

9. Philadelphia Benevolent Society. 94 members. 

10. American Friendly Institution. 100 members. 

11. Friendly Society of Philadelphia. 

12. Union Society of Philadelphia. 

13. Independent Benevolent Society. 

14. Pennsylvania Benefit Society. 

15. Friendly Society. 

The objects, principles, and in general, the rules of 
these societies are the same. They were originally esta- 
blished to prevent the degrading reflection arising 
from the circumstance of being relieved, while sick, 
by private or public charity : the members may de- 
mand their reliet as a right. Fines are generally 
inflicted upon members absent at stated meetings, 
and greater fines ii absent at the annual meetings: aiso 
for divulging any reflections made upon a member's 
character in the society; for slandering members, 
unless the facts can be proved ; and lor irregular be- 
haviour during the meetings of the society. Fines, 
from two to eight dollars, are also inflicted upon 
those who decline serving in the offices to which they 



SUMMARY OF THEIR RULES. 279 

have been elected. Distant sick members must have 
their illness certified by a magistrate, minister, or 
overseer of the poor, to entitle them to relief. 

No member receives the benefit of the association 
unless his quarterly subscriptions, and his fines are 
paid up ; nor until after he has been a certain time a 
member; from one to two years is the usual time 
stipulated. Diseases, the consequence of quarrels, 
drunkenness or vices, are not relieved. Provision is 
also made for orphans, for impositions on the so- 
ciety ; for expulsion ibr immoralities or crimes, pe- 
culation, or omission to pay subscriptions ; want of 
punctuality in this last respect, after two or three 
meetings, excludes a member from the benefit of the 
association. 

The treasurer commonly gives a bond, who, with 
the secretary, is allov/ed a small gratuity for extra 
trouble. The members comiiJonly are required to 
attend the funeral of deceased members, and to wear 
a black scarf round their hats or arm. 

Such societies cannot be too strongly recommend- 
ed. All classes of workmen, and others who depend 
upon their dailv labour for their support ; and who 
in case of their death would leave their families in 
distress, should be persuaded to form or join bene- 
volent societies. In Europe political economists are 
so well convinced of the importance of such asso- 
ciations, that they recommend them, although from, 
the numerous taxes, the difficulty of procuring a liv- 
ing, by a labourer or artist, is so great, that they 
must retrench their comforts to enable them to pay 
their subscriptions. In this country it is well known 
that every man, who chooses to work, even as a day 
labourer, can earn much more than he requires for 
his support ; and from not being a member oi such 
an association, the extra sum is squandered in va- 



^BO ST. ANDREW'S SOCIETY. 

rious ways, according to the habits of the man; so 
that when overtaken by sickness, he is unable to 
support himself, and either suffers, or is obliged to 
apply to the guardians of the poor, or be assisted by 
his friends ; even in the case of tradesmen, in a 
good way of business, such societies may prove 
highly beneficial, by preventing distress in case of 
unforeseen calamity, or lingering indisposition. 

Associations for Relief of Foreign Emigrants^ — 
l.St, Andrex'Js. 

The oldest association for the relief of distressed: 
emigrants, is the society of St. Andrew ; the date of 
ks formation cannot now be precisely ascertained, 
hut it is known to have existed for many years be- 
fore the American revolution. It was incorporated 
in 1808 ; the clear value or income of real estate, and 
the interest of the money lent by them shall not ex- 
reed five hundred pounds. 

The active duties of the society devolve upon six 
assistants ; they are to pay attention to emigrants 
from Scotland, inquire into their treatment during 
the passage, and into their circumstances and views ; 
to assist them bv their advice, and to recommend 
such of them as they may think proper to the society 
for pecuniary relief. They may also relieve natives 
of Scotland, their widows and children, or being the 
widows, children, or grand children of members of 
the society : but must not exceed the sum of twenty 
dollars, in a donation to any one person, nor the 
sum of one hundred dollars in the whole, in the ad- 
vancements by them, between any two stated meet- 
ings. Members pay five dollars upon admission, and 
three annually. The society meet four times an^ 



ST. GEORGE'S, WELSH, & HIBERNIAN SOCIETIES. 281 

nually j on St. Andrew's day, and on the last days of 
February, May, and August. 

President — Wm. M'Pherson, 

Treasurer — William Stothart, 

Secretary*— Quintin Campbell. 

2. St» George's Society^ 

Was instituted in the year 1772, for purposes si- 
milar to those of the former two ; but has not yet 
been incorporated. The active duties fall upon the 
stewards, of whom there are twelve. 

President — Robert E. Griffith. 

Vice President — Thomas Ketland. 

Treasurer — John Waddington. 

Secretary— George Davis. 

3. Welsh Society. 

The Society of St. David, was also formed before 
the American revolution, but the early records hav= 
ing "been lost, the precise year of its origin cannot 
BOW be known. 

In the year 1798, a number of the descendents of 
Welshmen^ associated for the purpose of relieving 
Welsh emigrants in distress, and were incorporated 
in 1802. This society has rendered very essential 
services, upon several occasions, to the objects for 
whose benefit it was instituted. 

President — Samuel Meredith. 

Vice President-^ — Robert Wharton. 

Treasurer — Thos. Cumpston. 

Secretary — J. S. Lev/is. 

4. Hiberniaji Society o . 

Was instituted about the year 1792, for the pur^ 
pose of protecting Irish emigrants from the cruelty 

A a 2 



2S2 HIBERNIAN SOCIETY. 

and tyrannical conduct of masters and owners of ves* 
sels employed in the passenger trade. 

Previously to the revolutionary war, and for some 
years immediately succeeding peace, the importa- 
tion of Irish and Germans was a profitable business, 
and was steadily followed by many persons. Those 
foreigners who could not pay for their passages, 
indented themselves, for two or three years as ser- 
vants ; and profit being the only object of those 
concerned in the trade, they often crowded their 
vessels to such a degree, that pestilential diseases 
originated on board, and great mortality ensued. 
The provisions too were often bad in quality, or 
deficient in quantity, and famine sometimes took off 
those whom disease did not reach. 

Scenes like these were so often repeated, that they 
roused the humanity of several Irish gentlemen, 
some of whom had suffered by, and many of whom 
had witnessed the conduct of those concerned in the 
trade; and associated for the purpose of checking 
the enormity. Several citizens, more particularly the 
natives of Germany and Scotland, seeing the great 
usefulness of the society, became members, and disre- 
garding national names, contributed to the funds and 
to the general usefulness of the society. 

The officers of the society, consist of a president, 
vice president, secretary and treasurer; but the 
chief duty is imposed upon the acting committee of 
twelve, which is divided into four classes, each class 
taking a tour of duty for three months. This duty 
consists in visiting all vessels arriving in the port, 
from Ireland, with passengers, making strict inquiry 
into the character and circumstances of those passen- 
gers who may be in any necessity, and to afford them 
assistance. To inquire about the number of passen- 
gers on board, and if they have been in every re- 
spect well treated j apd whether tlxe masters or 



GERMAN AND CALEDONIAN SOCIETIES. 2Bo^ 

freighters have conducted themselves agreeably to 
the laws for the regulation of the passenger trade,^ 
which, for want of attention, had been often shame- 
fully contravened : in case they find that these have 
been violated, or that the passengers have been in 
any way wronged, they are required to employ 
counsel to prosecute the offender. 

5. German Incorporated Society^ 

Was formed at a very early date, and incor" 
porated September 20, 1781. Their objects are to 
attend to the wants of Germans arriving in the state; 
to teach and improve poor children in the English 
and German languages, and to erect a library. The 
income of their real estate must not exceed twenty- 
five hundred pounds. 

This society has a neat hall in Seventh street, one 
room of which, handsomely furnished, is exclusively 
appropriated to accommodate the society at their 
quarterly meetings. 

President — George A. Baker. 

Mutual Benefit Societies of Foreigners and their 
Descendents, — 1. United German Benefit Society^ 

Was instituted in 1785; incorporated 1798, and 
consists of one hundred and fifteen native Germans, 
or descendents of Germans, between the ages of 
twenty-one and thirty-six, who pay three dollars 
entrance money. The society meets eight times a 



* So early as the yeai' 1749, a law was passed by the colonial 
legislature for the regulation of the passenger trade ; in 1765, 
further provision was made ; and in ir94, an act was passed 
containing the most ample rules for the prevention of the evils 
arising from the avarice, or inhumanity, of those concerned in 
the trade. 



2U UNITED GERMAN BENEFIT SOCIETY. 

year. Sick members, if confined to bed, receive four 
dollars per week ; if not confined, two dollars sixty- 
seven cents weekly. Widows, or lawful children, af- 
ter the death of a member, receive twenty dollars to 
assist in defraying funeral expenses. Lunatic, or in- 
firm members, who have been orderly, receive sub- 
scriptions, weekly, as a majority shall agree upon. 
President — William Binder. 

2. German American Mutual Assistance Society, 

Was incorporated 1801. The funds amount to 
fourteen hundred dollars. Entrance money, eight 
dollars.. Monthly contribution, thirty-seven and a half 
cents. Allowance to sick members, from three to 
four dollars per week ; to members on decease of 
their wives, twenty-five dollars; and to members 
wives, on decease of their husbands, fifty dollars*. 
Number of members one hundred and ten. 

President — John Bierebaum. 

3. Caledonian Society. 

Instituted 1790. All the members must be Scotch- 
men, or their offspring; at least thirty years of age, 
and not above forty years. Original subscription,, 
two dollars ; those that entered after January 1791, 
paid half a dollar additional for every year above 
thirty. Quarterly subscription, half a dollar ; six 
months arrearages exclude a member from the so- 
ciety. Stated meetings are in January, April, July 
and October. Three visitors attend to the sick, who 
are allowed two dollars and a half, weekly, during 
an illness. Alter an illness of twenty-six weeks, the 
allowance is reduced to one dollar per week. Dis- 
tant members are also relieved. 

President — Thomas Dobson* 

Treasurer — A. Campbell, 



SCOTS THISTLE SOCIETY. 2S5 



4. Scofs Thistle Society, 

This institution combines in its operations all the 
advantages of a mutual benefit, and of a charitable 
society. 

It was instituted in November 1796, and incorpo- 
rated in March 1799. It is composed of natives of 
Scotland, their sons, and the sons of members. The 
management of its affairs is vested in a president, 
vice president, treasurer, six counsellors and a se- 
cretary, who are elected annually on the 30th of 
November, St. Andrew's day. The original fund of 
the society was created, and is supported, by the en- 
trance money paid by new members, the quarterly 
contributions of the members, and by donations. 
Entrance money of the members, if under forty 
years of age, two dollars ; and one dollar for every 
year older till 45; one dollar is paid at each quarterly 
meeting. If a member is sick, or otherwise disabled 
from following his usual employment, he is visited 
by two members of the council, who carry to him 
three dollars weekly, during the continuance of his 
indisposition. He is furnished with medicines and 
medical advice, provided he is not in circumstances 
to pay for them. The benefit of medical assistance 
is likewise extended to all sickness which may occur 
in a member's family, and under particular circum- 
stances, to any indigent sick person who may be re- 
commended to the society as deserving of charity. 

When a member dies, twenty dollars are allowed to 
defray his funeral expenses, and all the members 
attend the funeral, with black crape round the left 
arm. If a member's v/ife die, twelve dollars are al- 
lowed ; on the death of a member's widow, ten dqh 
lars are paid for funeral expenses* 



sae SCOTS thistle society. 

Besides the above, the society have lately set on 
foot a separate fund for the benefit of the widows of 
members during their widowhood. This was begun 
in 1808, and only went partially into operation about 
six months ago; but as the capital accumulates, the 
benefit to widows v/ill be augmented in proportion. 
These benefits are confirmed to every member and 
their widows, " not as a charity, but a just right.'* 

In addition to the preceding benefits, this society 
applies, m charitable contributions, the proceeds of a 
principal stock, which is solely appropriated for the 
relief and assistance of emigrants from Scotland, who 
may be in indigent circumstances, their children, 
widows, &c. The views of the society in their dis- 
tribution of this charity are, to relieve the present 
necessities of the applicants, and if possible, by their 
advice and assistance, to put them in a way to sup- 
port themselves. 

The various funds of the society are at present in 
a very flourishing condition, and the affairs of the 
society are so conducted as to give general satisfac- 
tion. The present number of members exceeds 
eighty. 

The income for the last year, from November 30, 
1809, to November 30th, 1810, arising out of en- 
trance money paid by new members ; quarterly dues, 
interest of money lent, &c. $570 37 1-2 

Expenditure of last year, viz. weekly allowance 
to sick members, do. to widows, charities, and con- 
tingent expenses, &c, jB418 50 

Stated meetings of the society are held on the 
first Mondays of March, June, September and the 
30th November. 

President—James M'Alpin. 

Vice President — John Lang. 

Treasurer— William Wilson. 

Secretary — William Patton* 



m\ PATRICK'S, FRENCH AND BIBLE SOCIETIES. 28f 



4. St, Patrick^s Benevolent Society. 

Incorporated 1804. Members are Irishmen, or 
their sons, and must be citizens, and between twenty- 
one and forty years of age. Initiation iee, five dollars. 
Monthly payments, twenty-five cents. Three dollars, 
weekly allowance to sick members. Twenty dollars 
are allowed to detray the funeral of a deceased mem- 
ber. Meet on the irth of each month, at D. M'Ka- 
raher's, Second street below Lombard. 

President— 'Wm. Duane. 

6. Societe de Bienfaisance, 

Instituted 1804. Incorporated 1805, for the relief 
of Frenchmen in distress. The calamities of war 
have given very trequent opportunities to the mem- 
bers or this most excellent institution, to exercise 
their humanity. 

President— Mr. Laval. 

Bible Society, 

In December, 1808, a society was formed for the 
distribution of the Bible among the poor, and a ge- 
neral subscription made to effect the design Dona- 
tions have also been received from the Bible Society, 
in London, and irom pious individuals and religious 
societies in the United States. Three reports have 
been published of the proceedings of the society, by 
which it appears that, since it was organized, five 
thousand tour hundred and twenty-two Bibles and 
New Testaments have been distributed by this so- 
ciety. Every part oi the United States has received 
copies. Even Bibles in the German, Welsh and 
Gaelic languages have been distributed, to set- 



2m MASON'S SOCIETY. 

tlements where those languages solely are spoken. 
In this glorious zeal, Philadelphia, as usual, knows no 
distinction oi sect : all denominations of christians 
have aided the design by their subscriptions, and by 
dividing the labour oi the society among them. 
Rt. Rev. William White, D, D. President. 

Society of Masons* 

The early records of masonry in Philadelphia 
have been lost ; but it is known that a society of the 
^' Moderns," was formed at an early date, and that 
it was composed of several of the most respectable 
and prominent characters of the day. The gazettes, 
the only authority existing on the subject, inform 
us of a Grand Lodge having been held so early as 
the year 1732, at the '' Tun tavern,"^ the fashion- 
able hotel of the time, when William Allen, the 
recorder of the city, (afterwards chief justice) was 
chosen Grand Master : it appears that regular meet- 
ings were annually held for several years after- 
wards. 

In the year 1737, a melancholy event occurred, 
which gave the brethren much uneasiness. A party 
of idle men, not belonging to the craft, with a view 
of enjoying the fright which they supposed they 
would excite, either volunteered their services, or 
acceded to the wishes of a young man, to initiate 
him into the mysteries of masonry, and accordingly 
instituted a variety of ridiculous operations, at night, 
in a cellar, to all which he submitted with fortitude, 
although they were painful and extremely trying to 
a young mind. Finding that their object was I'kely 
to be defeated, a bov/l oi burning spirit, into which 

* Water street, between Walnut and Chesnut-streets, 



SOaETY OF MASONS. 289 

he had been directed to look for some time, was 
thrown over him, and his clothes taking fire, he was 
so much burnt, that he died in a few days afterwards. 
This melancholy event, justly excited the public 
indignation, and the chief promoter of the mischief, 
after a legal investigation, was ignominiously pu- 
nished by being burnt in the hand: but unfortunately 
the scene having been conducted under the impres- 
sion of a connection with masonry, a considerable 
prejudice, among those who were unacquainted with 
the principles oi the craft, was excited, and to such 
a degree did it extend, that the brethren deemed it 
necessary to come forward, and after stating the 
occurrence, in the newspapers, to " declare the ab- 
horrence of all true brethren, to this horrid practice; 
and that the persons concerned were not ol their socie- 
ty ,nor of any society of Free and Accepted Masons."* 

On the 23d September, 1743, the right honourable 
lord John Ward, grand master of England, nominated 
Thomas Oxnard, esq. provincial grand master of all 
North America. 

On the 10th July, 1749, Thomas Oxnard, esq. ap- 
pointed Benjamin Franklin, esq. provincial grand 
master of Pennsylvania, with authority to appoint 
the other grand officers, hold a grand lodge, issue 
warrants, &c. 

On the 5th September, 1749, the first grand lodge 
was held at " the Royal Standard," in Market 
street, under this warrant : grand master Franklin 
having appointed, 

Dr. Thomas Bond, deputy grand master. 

Joseph Shippen, senior grand warden. 

Philip Syng, junior grand warden. 

Wm. Plumsted, grand treasurer. 

Daniel Byles, grand secretary. 

* Signed, Thomas Hopkinson, G, M. 
Wm. Plumsted, D. G. M. 
Joseph Shippen and H. Pratt, G, W. 
Bb 



290 SOCIETY OF MASONS. 

At the same meeting a warrant was granted to 
James Pogreen=^ and others, to hold a lodge in Phila- 
delphia. The meetings were regularly held until 1 3th 
March, 1750, when William Allen, esquire, the re- 
corder of the city of Philadelphia, presented to the 
grand lodge a commission from the grand lodge of 
England, appointing him provincial grand master, 
which was recognized, and he appointed Benjamin 
Franklin, deputy grand master; and the other offi- 
cers above mentioned, according to rank. 

From this time they proceeded in their business, 
granting new warrants in the city, in various parts of 
the state and other places, until superceded by the 
introduction of various lodges of " ancient York ma- 
sons," and the ultimate establishment of a grand lodge 
of that order. 

As far as the minutes of the modern grand lodge 
go. Dr. Franklin was never absent from a meeting. 

A grand lodge was erected some years afterwards, 
in the alley leading from Second street to Dock 
street, by the bank of Pennsylvania, which remained 
until the year 1785; when the " Moderns," having 
greatly diminished, the two surviving trustees of the 
building, were authorised, by an^act of the legislature, 
to sell it, and to apply part of the proceeds thereof to 
a charitable purpose. They were given to the city, 
for the use of the poor. 

At what time the members of " Ancient York 
Masons," first held subordinate lodges, does not 
now appear ;| but in the year 1761, the late William 
Ball, of Philadelphia, obtained from the grand lodge 
of that society in London, the charter or warrant 
for the grand lodge in Pennsylvania. It is No. 1, 



* Signed William, lord Byron, baron of Rochdale, in the 
county of Lancaster, G. M. 
f Owing to the loss of the archives^ during the revolutionary 



SOCIETY OF MASONS. 291 

in Pennsylvania, and No. 89, in England,"* and re- 
gistered in the grand lodge, London, vol. 3d, letter 
C. and bears date July 14, 1761. 

The fraternity of the ancients, have since regu- 
larly held their grand communications, except while 
the British were in possession of Philadelphia, and 
to the end of last year, have constituted one hun- 
dred and thirty-one subordinate lodges, in several of 
the states, in the West Indies, in Florida, and 
twenty-one in Philadelphia. 

For several years past they have been anxious to 
erect a building suitable to the dignity of the craft, 
and to their thriving situation, but were not able 
until the year 1809 to accomplish their wishes. 
With the funds then in hand, and the help of addi- 
tional subscriptions, they commenced the undertak- 
ing; but their views enlarging as the work pro- 
ceeded, it became necessary to increase their funds ; 
they therefore proposed a loan of forty thousand 
dollars, at six per cent, redeemable on the first day 
of January 1825, on the security of the house and 
lot. This loan was filled in less than two hours, by 
eighty subscribers. A second loan for twenty thou- 
sand dollars, has also been filled. 

The Masonic Hall is in Chesnut, between Seventh 
and Eighth streets from Delaware, and was conse- 
crated in due form, and with all possible splendor 
and solemnity on last St. John's day. Upwards of 
eight hundred brethren, many of them from other 



* It is signed by Kelly, (Thomas Erskine, earl Kelly, vl; 
count Fenton, &c.) G. Master. 
Wm.Osborn, D. G. Master. 
Wm. Dickey, S, G. Warden, 
J. Gibson, J. G. Warden. 
Law. Dermott, G. Secretary, 



292 PROVISION FOR THE POOR. 

states, attended the procession on the OGcasiou. 
An impressive and eloquent oration, was delivered 
on the same day, before the society, by the grand 
master, James Milnor, esq.* in St. John's Church, 
Sassafras street. 

Officers. — James Milnor, R. W. Grand Master. 

P. L. B. Du Plessis, R. W. D. G. Master. 

Richard Tybout, R. W. Senior G. Warden. 

Joseph Burden, R. W. Junior G. Warden. 

George A. Baker, R. W. Grand Secretary. 

S.amu^.l F, Bradford, R. W. Grand Treasurer. 

Frovisioii for the Poor, 

The present system for the management of t^e 
poor of the city and county of Philadelphia, was es- 
tablished by a law passed the 29th March, 1803. By 
this law, sixteen citizens are to be chosen on the third 
Monday iu -May, by the corporation of Philadelphia, 
six by the corporation of Southwark, and eight by 
the justices of die peace of the township of Northern 
Liberties, who are to be guardians of the poor of the 
city and distric'^s. They must be " substantial 
house keepers," and the elections are to be viva 
voce: after the appointment of managers of the alms 
house from among them, the whole number of 
guardians remaining are to be divided equally by 
lot, so that one half of those for the city, district and 
township, shall be included in the said equal divi- 
sion, which one half continue in office for six months; 
and on the third Monday "6f November, six others 
are chosen in the same way to supply the places of 
those who have gone out. Guardians must take an 

* For sale by Bradford and tnskeep : a full account of the 
procession is annexed. 



PROVISION FOR THE POOR. 293 

oath of office, under a penalty of sixty dollars. They 
are declared to be a body politic and corporate in 
law, by the name of the " Guardians of the Poor of 
the city of Philadelphia, the district of Southwark, 
and township of the Northern Liberties." The 
guardians appoint eight of their number to superin- 
tend the alms house and house of employment ; four 
from the city, and two from each district, who divide 
themselves by lot into two classes, one of which go 
out every six months ; their places are supplied by a 
new election from the body of the guardians, so that 
four shall be appointed every six months. Vacancies 
are supplied by a new election by the guardians and 
managers. Besides the superintendence of the alms 
house, and house of employment, the managers are 
empowered, with the approbation of four aldermen, 
and two justices of the county, to lay an assessment^ 
not exceeding one hundred cents in the hundred 
dollars at any one time, nor more than three dollars 
per head on every freeman, not otherwise rated. The 
guardians may appoint a clerk ; and any tv/o of them 
may furnish relief in cases of persons being taken so 
ill as to require immediate assistance, and cannot be 
removed to the alms house : but they must report 
their proceedings at the next meeting of the general 
board. The managers may put out poor children as 
apprentices, and also bind out by indenture, disorder- 
ly persons, who by their vices have fallen sick, and 
become chargeable to the city or districts. 

The managers have formed a set of rules for their 
own government, and that of the house, of which 
the following is an abstract. 

The board of managers meet at the alms house 
every Monday afternoon. They divide themselves 
into various committees, viz. 

1. The visiting committee of two, who inspect the 
wards twice a week, and render such advice and asr- 

3b 2 



294 PROVISION FOR THE POOR. 

sistance in supporting the order of the house as may 
appear useful. 

2. A manufacturing committee of four, who meet 
once a week ; they order the purchase of raw mate- 
rials, fix the prices on alL goods manufactured in the 
house, and inspect the accounts. 

3. A clothing committee of two, who serve in 
rotation one month ; meet once a week, distribute 
clothes to the poor, and order or recommend new 
purchases, when necessary, to the board. 

4. A provision committee of three ; they purchase 
provisions for the paupers. 

5. A fuel committee of three, who purchase fuel 
for the house, and report to the board all such pur- 
chases. 

A steward and matron are chosen by the mana- 
gers. The former has the general superintendence of 
l,he house, and the nurses, &c. except that part for 
the women and children ; and is particularly re- 
quired to attend at meal times to preserve order : 
he reports the ingress and regress of the paupers, or 
deaths and elopements, with all bills, &c. keeps an 
account of all the goods manufactured in the house. 
The matron has the entire superintendence and care 
of that part of the house appropriated to females and 
children ; and every Monday is to apply to the 
steward for as much raw materials as may be re- 
quisite for the employment of those under her care, 
in carding, spinning, knitting, and sewing. Every 
Saturday afternoon, she is required to deliver all the 
yarn and threadspun during the week, to the steward. 

All persons admitted, who are capable of working, 
are to be employed. 

Children are taught to read. Smoking and beg- 
ging are prohibited : no spirituous liquors are dis- 
tributed to any pauper, unless ordered by the physi- 
ciansj or the managers. The punishment for mis- 



PROVISION FOR THE POOR. 295 

condact of any kind, is the solitary cells. Various 
other rules and regulations are in force, but it is not 
conceived necessary to state them. They refer 
merely to the well ordering of the house. 

Three citizens are annually appointed by the 
mayor's court, and by the court of quarter sessions, 
of the county at their first session, in every year, to 
audit and settle the accounts of the treasurer, the 
board of guardians, and managers respectively; and 
to publish a true statement of all their receipts, 
whether in taxes, donations, legacies or otherwise, 
including a statement of the amount of the taxes le- 
vied in each and every year, together with the ex- 
penditures of the corporation, in two newspapers, 
ior three days. 

The alms house is on the east side of the square, 
bounded east by Tenth street ; southward, by Pine 
street ; westward, by Eleventh street ; northward, by 
Spruce street. It is built in the form of an L, one hun- 
dred and eighty feet by forty. It consists of two sto- 
ries, joined by a turret, thirty feet square, of four sto- 
ries. The house of employment is on the west side of 
Eleventh street, of the same figure and dimensions. 

In 1810, the average number of paupers supported 
and employed in the alms house, was five hundred and 
tweflty-six men, and three hundred and eighty-five 
women, and three hundred and eighty-three children: 
but two hundred and twelve of the children were at 
nurse out of the house. Total supported, twelve hun- 
dred and ninety-four paupers. The sum expended for 
their support was $50,761, 87 being about ^39, for 
each pauper for one year. The tax levied ior the 
support of the poor in the city and county, and also 
in the alms house, in the year 1811 was ^83,000. 
The whole number of poor pensioned in the city,^ or 
supported in the alms house is estimated at 82^500,, 



296 LITERARY INSTITUTIONS. 

A variety of goods are made by the poor ; but in. 
order to finish every article of clothing used in the 
house, some hands are hired ; about thirty looms for 
weaving cloth are in operation, and goods to the 
amount of from fifteen to twenty thousand dollars 
are annually made in the house. 

Literary Institutions • 

As early as the year 1689, a school was establish- 
ed by the Society of Friends in Philadelphia, for 
teaching the English and learned languages,^ and 
George Keith, of polemic memory, a man of ta- 
lents, was invited from New Jersey to take charge 
of it ; but having given dissatisfaction to his em- 
ployers, after one year he was succeeded by the 
learned Thomas Makin, whose Latin description of 
the country will amuse the reader.f 

The society, as has been already mentioned, was 
incorporated by Wm. Penn. Its concerns are ma- 
naged by fifteen " overseers," who have now under 
their care, thirteen schools. The Greek and Latin 
languages, and other liberal branches of learning 
may be acquired in some departments of the insti- 
tution, whilst in others, the pupils can receive a 
plain education. 

University of Pennsylvania, 

In the year 1749, a subscription was set on foot, 
among a number of gentlemen of Philadelphia, for 
the purpose of establishing an academy and charita- 



* See p. 261. 

\ See Fraud's history of Pennsylvania. 



UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 297 

ble school,=^ and was so liberally encouraged, that in 
the year 1750, it was opened under twenty-four 
trustees, for instruction in the Latin and English 
languages, and in mathematics. The institution was 
incorporated in 1753, by the proprietaries, and a 
donation in money and lands made to it, by them, 
to the amount of three thousand pounds. The Rev. 
Wm. Smith, was appointed principal, and the Rev. 
Francis Allison, master of the Latin school ; with 
Mr. Beveridge, and Mr. Grew as teachers. In the 
year 1755, upon the petition of the trustees, an addi- 
tional charter was obtained, to authorise the con- 
ferring degrees by the institution, under the title of 
*' the College, Academy and Charitable School of 
Philadelphia:" and in the same year, the first literary 
honours were conferred upon six pupils.f 

In the year 1764, the foundation of the first me- 
dical school in America was laid, by a course of 
lectures upon anatomy, which was delivered by the 
late Dr. Wm. Shippen. His pupils amounted only 
to ten.:j: He was appointed professor of that branch, 
in the following year, by the trustees, and Dr. John 
Morgan,§ professor of the institutes of medicine. 



* The orig-inal and chief promoters of the plan, were Thomas 
Hopkmson, Tench Francis, Richard Peters, and Benjamin 
Franklin. The last acted for some time as the Secretary of the 
Board. The^ charitable school contained thirty girls, to be 
taug-ht reading", writing" and sewing-; and sixty boys, who were 
taught reading, writing and arithmetic. 

f These were the late Rev. Mr. Duche, Rev. Dr. Samuel 
Magaw, Rev. James Latta, Dr. Hugh Williamson, Francis Hop- 
kinson,esq. late Admiralty Judge, and Hall. 

t Last winter the anatomical class amounted to between three 
and four hundred pupils. 

§ Dr. Morgan delivered " a discourse upon the institution of 
medical schools in America," at a commencement in May 
1765, in which he pointed out the advantages to be derived 
from their establishment. 



298 UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA^ 

Both those gentlemen had graduated at Edinburgh, 
and had previously agreed to attempt the establish- 
ment of a medical school on their return. In 1768, 
Dr. A. Kuhn, was appointed professor of botany; and 
in 1769, Dr. B. Rush, v/as appointed to the chemical 
chair ; Dr. T. Bond, at the same time, gave clinical 
lectures in the Pennsylvania hospital. 

The college continued to diffuse the benefits of 
learning, and was conducted with ability and zeal, 
under that name, until the year 1779, when the le- 
gislature of Pennsylvania gave it a new charter, 
erecting it into a University. It was placed under 
the direction of a new board of trustees : a few of 
whom had been members of the old board, and the 
executive council authorised to bestow on it, so ma- 
ny of the confiscated estates as would produce an 
additional income of fifteen hundred pounds a year. 
The Rev. Dr. John Fwing was appointed provost. 

The removal of the former provost, was consi- 
dered an act of high injustice, not only by himself, 
but by many of the best whigs of the day. They 
therefore frequently petitioned the legislature to re- 
store the charter to the college, but without success, 
owing to the supposed disaffection of the former 
provost to the independence of the United States. 
In the year 1789, however, when the passion's of 
men had been somewhat cooled, another attempt 
was made and succeeded. By a law passed in that 
year, the university v/as continued, and the col- 
lege revived. Distinct professors in the arts and 
in medicine were appointed ; and thus two semina- 
ries were established. But it was not long before the 
two boards found that neither of them had funds 
adequate to the expenses of separate institutions, 
and they became convinced of the necessity of an 
union. Conferences being held, it was agreed that 
both boards should present the same petition to the 



UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 299 

legislation, praying that, on certain conditions, they 
might be united. Accordingly in 1791, this was 
done, and thus was finally erected the seminary, 
now called the University of Pennsylvania, still 
composed of the same schools of which the old col- 
lege consisted, with the addition of the professor- 
ships of Natural History, Law, and the German 
language. The new board was composed of twenty- 
four members, taken equally from the old boards: and 
the governor of the state was to be president. They 
made choice of Dr. Ewing as provost, who continued 
in that station until his death in 1803. He was suc- 
ceeded by the Rev. Dr. M'Dowell, from Maryland, 
but who resigned in 1809. In 1811, the Rev. Dr. 
Andrews, was chosen provost, and Mr. Robert 
Patterson, vice provost. 

The present professors are. 

Rev. Dr. John Andrews, Provost, and Professor 
of Moral Philosophy and Logic. 

Robert Patterson, Vice Provost, and Professor of 
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy. 

Rev. Dr. Wm. Rogers, Professor of English and 
Belles Lettres. 

James Thomson, Professor of Languages. 

MEDICAL SCHOOL. 

Caspar Wistar, jun. M. D. Professor of Anatomy. 

Benjamin Rush, M. D. Professor of the Institutes , 
and Practice of Physic, and of Clinical Practice. 

Philip Syng Physick, M. D. Professor of Surgery. 

John Syng Dorsey, M. D. Adjunct Professor of 
Surgery. 

Dr. Benjamin Smith Barton, Professor of Materia 
Medica, Botany and Natural History. 

T. C. James, M. D. Professor of Midwifery. 

John Redman Coxe, M. D. Professer of Chemis- 
try. 



500 AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, 



American Philosophical Society^ 

Was formed in the year 1769, by the union of 
two other literary societies that had previously sub- 
sisted in Philadelphia. One of these, stiled the 
" American Philosophical Society," was instituted in 
1743; and at the time of the union, consisted of one 
hundred and twenty-seven members : the other 
stiled the " American Society for promoting useiul 
knowledge," was instituted in 1766, and at the union, 
consisted of seventy-eight fellows, and sixty-nine 
corresponding members. 

The society was incorporated by an act of the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, passed in 1780. 

In the year 1786, Mr. John Hyacinth de Magel- 
lan, of London, presented to the society, a donation 
of two hundred guineas, to the end that the interest 
thereof should be annually disposed of in premiums, 
to be adjudged by the society, to the author of the 
best discovery, or most useful invention relating to 
navigation, astronomy, or natural philosophy, mere 
natural history only excepted: the premium to con- 
sist of an oval plate of solid standard gold, of the 
value of ten guineas, with suitable devices engraved 
thereon. 

Persons of all nations, are admitted as candidates 
for this premium. 

The Magellanic fund, having been so managed as 
to produce an annual surplus, the society, with a 
view to promote the liberal intentions of the donor, 
have determined that the above surplus fund shall 
be employed, in the first instance, according to the 
strict conditions of the donation, if a sufficient num- 
ber of deserving candidates shall have applied for 
the same; otherwise that such surplus, or so much 
thereof as cannot be applied as above, be awarded by 



AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY. 301 

the society to the authors of useful inventions or 
improvements, on any subjects within the general 
view of the Magellanic donation, or to the authors 
of such communications as may lead to such inven- 
tions or improvements, and which communications 
may be deemed worthy of the premium. The pre- 
mium to consist of a gold medal of the value of not 
less than twenty, nor more than forty-five dollars, or 
the same sum in money, at the option of the candi- 
date ; accompanied with a suitable diploma. 

Several medals of the Magellanic fund, and pre- 
miums of the surplus fund, have been awarded by 
the society. 

Five volumes in 4to, of transactions, and the first 
part of a sixth vol., have been published by the so- 
ciety. Materials for another volume are preparing: 
the society having judiciously resolved to adopt the 
example of tlie Royal Society of London, to publish a 
volume, large or small, annually. 

Aided by the liberal donations of a number of 
friends of science, both in America and Europe, and 
by the legislature of Pennsylvania, the society were 
enabled to erect, about the year 1785, on the N. E. 
part of the state house square, a commodious build- 
ing, where they held their meetings. 

The society meet on the first and third Fridays of 
every month, from October to May, both inclusive, 
at six m the evening : and on the third Friday in 
each of the other four months, at 7 o'clock. 

On other Friday evening;s, the members meet for 
the purpose of literary conversation, and oi perusing 
the new^ foreign journals v»'hich are imported in single 
numbers. On those evenings members may introduce 
any friend or stranger. 

The library oi the society is extensive, and an- 
nually increasixsg. 

c c 



Sm MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

The society have likewise an extensive collection 
of minerals from all quarters of the world, scientifi- 
cally arranged. 

President — Thomas Jefferson. 

Medical Society, 

A society of students, who met for mutual im- 
provement, was formed in the year 1771. About the 
year 1 790, another was formed, which after a short 
time was united with that previously existing ; the 
new association assumed the name of the " Phila- 
delphia Medical Society." Members are either ho- 
norary, or junior. The latter are required to read a 
paper before the society, and to be examined on the 
same previously to being balloted for. The presi- 
dent and officers are generally changed every year. 
The society meets only during the winter season. 

College of Physicians, 

This association was formed in the year 1787, and 
incorporated in the year 1789, by the legislature of 
Pennsylvania. 

The objects of the college, as stated in their con- 
stitution, are " to advance the science of medicine, 
and thereby to lessen human misery, by investigating 
the diseases and remedies which are peculiar to this 
country ; by observing the effects of different sea- 
sons, climates and situations upon the human body ; 
by recording the changes which are produced in dis- 
eases, by the progress of agriculture, arts, population 
and manners, by searching for medicines in the 
American woods, waters, and in the bowels of the 
earth; by enlarging the avenues to knowledge from 
the discoveries and publications of foreign countries, 
and by cultivating order and uniformity in the prac- 
tice of physic." 



LINNEAN SOCIETY. 3^5 

In the year 1793, the college published the first 
part of the first volume of transactions, in 8vo, and 
have also published a pamphlet in favour of the im- 
portation from the West Indies, of the contagion of 
the fever, which prevailed in 1793, and since that 
year, in Philadelphia. 

Medical Lyceum^ 

Was formed in the year 1804. It was originally 
intended that the senior members in this society, 
should have the entire management of its affairs ; 
and that the junior members should merely attend 
the debates. But, after a year or two, the plan was 
so far altered that all the members have the right of 
suffrage in the concerns of the society. The society 
-hold their session during the course of the medical 
lectures. At each meeting a paper is read, by the 
members, in rotation, which is submitted to discus- 
sion. 

The officers are annually elected. 

Linnean Society, " 

A number of young gentlemen, desirous to pro- 
mote a knowledge of the vegetable kingdom ; and 
assured of the advantages to be derived from it, in a 
philosophical, medical and agricultural point oi view, 
met together and established a society/, on the 6th 
of June, 1806, under the title of the '' American 
Botanical Society, held at Philadelphia." Members 
were afterwards admitted from various parts of the 
union, from whom the society expected to receive 
specimens or drawings of plants, and communica- 
tions respecting their character, and real or reputed 
medical or other properties. Hitherto the attention 
of the society had been confined to a single object. 



304 LINNEAN SOCIETY; 

"in natural history. On the 4th of March 1807, iliwas 
resolved that the views of the society be extended 

ml 

to natural history, generally, and that it be stiled 
,in future, the Philadelphia Linnean Society. The 
constitution was altered, as circumstances rendered 
necessary, and Dr. Barton, elected president, who 
delivered the first anniversary oration on the 10th of 
June. The business of the society is conducted by a 
president, vice president, corresponding and record- 
ing secretaries, treasurer and two curators. A stand- 
ing committee, consisting of sixteen members, and 
termed the grand committee, is annually elected, 
which is subdivided into three committees, to one 
of which are submitted all questions, essays, speci- 
mens, &c. relating to mineralogy ; to the second, 
those relating to botany; and to the third, those ap- 
pertaining to zoology. When any specimen is pre- 
sented, or information is requested upon any sub- 
ject in natural history, it is submitted by the 
chairman of the grand committee to the proper de- 
partment, who make the necessary examination, and 
report the result to the chairman. He presents it, at 
the next meeting, to the society, when the informa- 
tion is directed to be communicated to the person 
requesting it. The society has lately desired the ci- 
tizens of the United States to forward specimens of 
plants and minerals, with such information respect- 
ing their application to useful purposes as they may 
possess. They will be examined, gratis, by the proper 
department; and it is hoped that, by means of this 
central deposit, much useful knowledge will be ac- 
cjuired respecting the natural history of our country, 
and many substances found, which from ignorance 
of their existence here, have hitherto lain dormant 
in the earth, but which will now become extensive- 
ly valuable in the arts and manufactures. The fol- 
lowing extract from their address, will discover at 
once the laudable objects of the society. 



PHILADELPHIA LIBRARY. 305 

^^ To assist in obtaining a full knowledge of the 
medicinal and dying drugs indigenous to our soil ; 
to expedite the discovery ot useful metals; to aid 
the manulactures of their country, as far as they are 
connected therewith ; and to remove the inconve- 
niences and disadvantages of individuals, not pos- 
sessing an acquaintance with natural knowledge, the 
Linnean Society, of Philadelphia, has directed the 
undersigned committee to give this public notice, 
that any plants, ores or any mineral substance what- 
ever, which shall be forwarded to any member of 
the committee, shall be examined by the botanical 
and mineralogical departments of the society. The 
result of the examination shall be communicated, as 
soon as completed, to the person transmitting such 
specimens, together with such other iniormation re- 
lative to its nature and uses which the society can 
impart. 

Samuel Jackson, M. D. James Cutbush, Samuel 
Benezet, M. D. Committee. 

Libraries* — 1. Philadelphia Librartj. 

" The foundation of the present library was laid 
in the year 1731, a period when Philadelphia af- 
forded little assistance to the inquiries of the studiouso 
A number of gentlemen having raised the sum of 
one hundred pounds, by subscription, a small library 
was formed upon principles the best calculated to 
disseminate knowledge : the books were not, as in 
many of the public libraries of Europe, confined to 
the apartments, but the subscribers were allowed to 
carry them home for a reasonable space of time. 

The plan soon became popular \ accessions to the 
number of members took place, and the stock of 
books was annually increased by purchases at the 

c c 2 



306 PHILADELPHIA LIBRAPvY. 

company's expense, and liberal donations from per- 
sons both at home and abroad. 

The instrument of association, signed by thirty- 
eight members, was dated July 1, 1731. The first 
importation of books from London, amounting to 
forty-five pounds, fifteen shillings, sterling, arrived in 
October 1732. The library was first opened in a room, 
in Jones's alley, now called Pewter-platter alley, lead- 
ing from Second street to Front street, above High 
street. In 1773, it was transferred to the carpenter's 
hall, and in October, 1790, it was placed in the pre- 
sent building. 

The proprietaries of Pennsylvania encouraged the 
plan, by making several valuable donations, and 
granting a charter of incorporation in the year 1742. 

A spirit of literary improvement made its way 
among all classes of people, and the philanthrophy of 
the great and amiable character"^ who suggested the 
plan, was gratified by tracing the books as well into 
the hands of the opulent, with whom literature is 
sometimes no more than one of the ornaments of 
civil life, as among those to whom it renders a more 
substantial benefit. Letters, while they employ the 
leisure of the artist, reconcile him to his labour ; by 
removing grosser relaxations, they promote his 
health, while they enlarge his mind ; and prolong his 
life, while they teach him to enjoy it. 

The respectable and intelligent character 
or the latter class of people in Philadelphia, 

AND its environs, CANNOT BE REFERRED TO A 
3I0RE PROBABLE CAUSE, THAN THE HABIT OF 
READING PROMOTED BY THIS INSTITUTION. 

The great utility and success of this measure, 
occasioned the formation of other libraries upon si- 

* Dr. Franklin, 



PHILADELPHIA LIBRARY, SQT 

milar principles : but as it appeared more conducive 
to the interests oi literature, to be possessed of one 
4arge, than of several smaller collections ol books, 
coalitions gradually took place among them, till the 
Amicable, the Association, and the Union Compa- 
nies were blended with " i^he Library Company of 
Philadelphia," the title conterred by the charter. 

Since thiS event, which took place in the year 
1769, the members and the property of the company 
have continued to increase ; the former being now 
between five and six hundred in number. The num- 
ber of volumes, at present, amounts to twenty thou- 
sand and seventy-six; the selection of which, has in 
general been calculated to promote the more im- 
portant interests of society. The stock of books is 
continually increased by occasional donations, an- 
nual importations, and purchases of every Ameri- 
can production of merit. 

The library received, a few years since, a consi- 
derable accession of very valuable and costly books, 
to the number of two thousand five hundred vo- 
lumes, by the bequest of the late Rev. Mr. Preston, 
rector of Chevening, in Kent, England. 

Some valuable machines, an apparatus for the 
purposes of natural philosophy, &c. and a few curi- 
ous artificial and natural productions, also belong to 
the company, and are deposited in their apartments: 
the librarian attends to show them on Saturday 
mornings, from ten to twelve o'clock : and the di- 
rectors, on proper occasions, permit the instruments 
to be made use of. 

The shares, since August, 1793, have been fixed at 
forty dollars: the annual payment from each mem- 
ber is two dollars. 

A house and lot of ground, which belonged to the 
Union Company ; two lots of ground (one the ge» 
nerous donation of the late Thomas Penn,) and se» 
yeral ground rents, constitute the real estate. 



308 LOGANIAN LIBIIART. 

The members hold the property as tenants in 
common, and dispose of their shares by will or deed : 
but the assent of the directors, as well in such cases 
as in case of an original purchase, is previously ne- 
cessary ; a restriction early adopted, in order, as 
much as possible, to prevent improper persons from 
having access to a collection of a nature so liable to 
injury. 

The directors and a treasurer are annually elected 
on the first of May, by the members ; the directors 
appoint a secretary and librarian :" the latter has a 
salary. The board meet monthly.* 

The library is opened only in the afternoon, from 
two o'clock till sunset; but it is hoped and expected 
that it will be shortly kept open all day. 

2^Loganian Library^ 

Was instituted by the late James Logan, a gen- 
tleman of considerable literature, who in the course 
of a long life had collected a number of the most rare 
and curious books in ahiiost all the ancient languag- 
es. He built a house for their reception, and by deed 
executed in his life time, vested the house and lot, 
together with the books and some yearly rents for 
supporting a librarian, and occasionally increasing 
the catalogue, in trustees for the use of the public 
for ever ; under certain rules and regulations con- 
tained in these instruments. Sometime afterwards 
he cancelled this deed, and prepared another, which 
he did not live to execute ; this unfinished instru- 
ment varied the regulations in some respects, and 
the funds for the purpose of the institution, but the 
uses were the same as in the first. After his death, 



Preface to Catalogue of Library. 



LOGANIAN LIBRARY. 309 

his children and residuary legatees, executed a deed 
conformable to that which had been prepared by him, 
vesting in the same trustees the whole estate intended 
by the founder, and the books were removed to a 
building prepared for them, arranged in order, and 
a catalogue printed. 

By the constitution, William Logan (the founder's 
eldest son) was the first librarian, and the office was 
made hereditary in his family, w4th powder to execute 
it by a deputy. The funds appointed for a librarian, 
&c. w^ere originally small, but issued from a very 
improving estate ; they were so reserved as to in- 
crease at stated periods, so as to afford a very hand- 
some income. Till one of those periods arrived they 
were not sufficient for the regular support of a libra- 
rian, wherefore he attended a considerable time to 
the duty in person. To this institution William Logan, 
by his will, devised a very handsome library, col- 
lected partly by himself, and partly by his uncle, the 
late Dr. William Logan, of Bristol, in England, 
amounting to about one thousand volumes. After his 
death, which happened in 1776, the 1 ibrary was shut 
for several years, owing to the death or absence of the 
trustees. In 1791, James Logan, the last surviving 
trustee named in the grant, having had several pre- 
vious consultations with Dr. Franklin, and with a 
number of his fellow citizens, on the subject, pre- 
sented a memorial to the legislature, wherein he 
stated the situation of the institution, and prayed for 
their aid to put it in a way of answering the end in- 
tended by his father, the founder. Whereupon, an act 
was passed, annexing the Logani an library to that of 
the Library Company of Philadelphia, and constitu- 
ting the directors and their successors, for the time 
being, together with James Logan, or his eldest male 
heir and two trustees, whom he or his heir shall 
appoint, trustees of the said Loganian library. It is. 



310 FRIENDS' LIBRAE f. 

however, provided, that the said books and other 
property belonging to this institution, together with 
such other property as may hereafter be acquired, 
shall be forever kept separate from the books be- 
longing to the Library Company of Philadelphia ; 
and that the said library shall be known by the name 
of the Loganian Library, agreeably to the intention- 
of the donor. The house built by Ji?mes Logan, has 
been sold, and a large and commodious room built 
adjoining the Philadelphia Library, for the purpose 
of keeping the books of the Loganian Library, which 
was opened for the benefit of the citizens, in May 
1794. It contains 3,944 volumes. 

3. Friends^ Library* 

The religious society of Friends, in Philadelphia^ 
have a library of about six hundred volumes, princi- 
pally on theological subjects, by authors of various 
denominations of professing christians. It is under 
the care of a librarian, who gives his attendance on 
the afternoon of every seventh day (Saturday) for 
the delivery and receipt of books, free of expense, to 
any respectable applicant who shall subscribe to the 
rules. 

A convenient room in the meeting house on Mul- 
berry and Fourth streets, is appropriated as a repo- 
sitory for the books. This collection was originally 
commenced by the pious Thomas Chalkley, and after 
his death, considerable additions were made to it by 
donations, and bequests of the late Anthony Bene- 
zett, and John Pemberton. 

The Circulating Libraries of Shallns, in Third 
near Chesnut street, and of Philips, in Third, oppo- 
site the mansion house hotel, contain, large collec- 
tions of miscellaneous books. 



MUSEUM. 311 



Museum, 



This extensive collection was commenced in the 
year 1784, by Mr. Charles Willson Peale, by pro- 
fession a portrait painter. It was originally con- 
tained in a frame building annexed to his dwelling 
house, and afterwards removed to the hall of the 
Philosophical Society. In 1802, the legislature of 
Pennsylvania, generously granted, for the use of the 
Museum, the upper apartments of the state house, 
where the whole collection is now neatly arranged. 

A general outline of the arrangement, and a no- 
tice of the most interesting subjects, are all that can 
be expected in a work like the present. 

QUADRUPED ROOM. 

This room contains upwards of tvv^o hundred 
quadrupeds, mounted in their natural attitudes : the 
larger kinds, with their names in neat frames, are 
placed on pedestals, behind wire netting: the smaller 
quadrupeds are in glass cases. Numerical catalogues 
in frames over each case, state the genera to which 
they belong, and their specific names, in Latin, 
English and French, The Linnean classification is 
generally adopted throughout the animal department. 

Among the most remarkable of the quadrupeds, 
are the bison, of North America, improperly called 
buffaloe ; the broad tail sheep of Africa; the big 
horned sheep, and the pronged horned antelope, both 
brought by captain Lewis from the rocky mountain. 
American elks, cougar, usually called panther; jaguar, 
the untameable hyena, and fierce jackall ; the lama 
or camel oi South America; American buck, Ame- 
rican wolf and foxes ; the long clawed grisly bear 
from the Missouri, black bear ; twenty-one species of 
Simia or the monkey tribe; two varieties of the wild 
cat^ long and short tailed; Cayenne tyger cat, two 



sn JSrUSEFM. 

otters, American and English beaver ; hairless dog, 
long tailed or scaly manis, jabata or great ant eater, 
kangarou o^' New Holland, and American opossum 
displaying its ialse pouch ; duck billed platypus 
from New Holland ; badger ; two armadillos ; the 
beautiful and affectionate ring tailed maucauco ; 
picary, brad3'^pus or sloth; crested porcupine from 
New Holland, some of whose quills measure eigh- 
teen inches, and American porcupine. There are also 
the ourang outang ; the elephant seal, twelve feet 
six inches long; leopard and beaver seals. Mada- 
gascar bats, measuring four feet from tip to tip, and 
the hooded bat. 

LONG ROOM. 

All the birds are in glass cases, the insides of 
which are properly painted. These cases rising 
twelve feet from the floor, extend the whole length 
of the room, which is one hundred feet long, dis- 
playing an elegant collection. 

The first order, rapacious birds, begins in the 
upper row, at the east end of the room, and extends 
nearly to the centre : each succeeding order begin- 
ning eastward, and extending to the west. In 
frames over each case, the genus is first noted, their 
species, and names in Latin, English and French, 
referring to the numbers which are attached to each 
species. 

There are in this collection, (including m-any non- 
descripts) nearly all the birds of the United States, 
and a considerable number from South America, and 
other parts oi the world. The number exceeds one 
thousand. The hooping crane, from the capes of 
Delaware, the jabiru and crowned heron irom 
South America, the ostrich, the bird of Paradise: 
scarlet ibis^ and spoon bill, from the coast oi Geor- 
gia; the pelican and long necked flamingo will par- 
ticularly attract the attention. The sportsman will 



MUSEUM. 313 

here to©, see all the birds of game, both of land and 
water; among others, the grouse, and our bird, im- 
properly called pheasant; the beautiful English pheas- 
ant, and an interesting collection of snipes, wood- 
cocks and plovers. 

On projecting cases, between the windows, is a 
classification of four thousand insects, in frames. 
Those species which are too small to be examined 
with the naked eye, are placed in microscopic 
wheels : there are also seven cases with minerals, 
and fossils, arranged according to Kirwan, from va- 
rious parts of the United States, and other parts of 
the world. Among the clays are some American 
specimens, equal to those of which the finest porce- 
lain is made, in China or France. At the east end 
are several medals, some struck by congress, and 
some by order of Joseph Sansom, esq. commemora- 
ting events of the American revolution. There are 
also two edible birds-nests, from the East Indies. 

Over the birds, in neat gilt frames, are two rows 
of portraits, one hundred and fifteen in number, of 
distinguished personages, painted from life, by C. 
W. Peale and his son Rembrandt. This collection 
was begun in 1779, and contains many of the heroes 
and sages of the revolution, who contributed, by their 
swords, their pen, or their counsel, to the attainment 
of the liberty we now enjoy. There is also a collec- 
tion of portraits of distinguished French literary 
characters, painted by Rembrandt Peale. 

BACKROOM. 
This contains the skeleton of the mammoth, which 
was dug up by Mr. Peale in 1801, out of a marie 
pit in Ulster county. New York : various Indian 
figures in their native war dresses : other Indian 
dresses, and an interesting collection of their orna» 
ments, spears, war clubs, stone hatchets, cups, pipes, 
and utensils ; idols from the Sandwich islands ; the 

Dd 



314 ACADEIVIY OF FINE ARTS. 

sleigh in which colonel Pike travelled six hundred 
miles, from the source of the Mississippi, drawn by 
two dogs ; the shoe and stocking of the Irish giant 
0*Brian : various curious specimens of clothing 
made from the barks of trees, by the natives of the 
South Sea islands, and from the intestines of the 
whale by the Indians of the N. W. Coast of Ameri- 
ca. Ancient English bow gun ; bamboola, an in- 
strument of music from Africa. Chinese compass 
and dial : various mammoth teeth of both species, 
found in different parts of the United States ; a live 
rattlesnake, and numerous smaller articles. 

There is also a figure and striking likeness in wax, 
of the late captain Lewis, as he was dressed by a 
Shoshone chief, in ermine skins, near the source of 

the Missouri. 

THE MAIIINE ROOM 

Is in the third story, and contains the chama, a 
shell, three feet long and 185 lbs. weight: a blue, 
and hammer headed shark: sword fish, saw fish : 
alligator fish, and paddle fish, from the western riv- 
ers of the United States : Miami salmon and pike ; 
dolphin ; large sun fish from the capes of Delaware ; 
frog fish, with rows of teeth in the throat ; alligators 
from the southern states ; a great collection of tor- 
toises, among others the gouifer of Georgia. Nume- 
rous snakes ; guana, N. Holland lizard ; skin of a 
snake twenty -six feet long ; a neat collection of shells, 
corals and madrepores ; the lizard of Georgia, 
some anatomical preparations, and numerous arti- 
cles preserved in spirits. 

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine ArtSy 

Was founded in the year 1805, by the voluntary 
association and contributions of a number of gentle- 
men of the city of Philadelphia. It was soon after 



ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS. SIS 

incorporated by the legislature. The object of this 
institution is to improve and refine the public taste 
in works of art, and to cultivate and encourage our 
native genius, by providing elegant and approved 
specimens of the arts for imitation, and schools for 
instruction. An appropriate building was erected in 
Chesnut street, between Eleventh and Twelfth 
streets, and a large building has lately been added 
to that first erected, for the exhibition of paintings, 
and the accommodation of the necessary schools, 
drawing rooms, &c. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUILDING. 
" The character of the exterior architecture is mo- 
dern Ionic. The front elevation consists of a marble 
basement, four feet high, with a large flight of steps, 
to a recessed porch eighteen feet front on the front 
line, and ten feet deep : the remainder of the eleva- 
tion consists of a high principal story, and an attic 
with cornice, parapet, freize, and neck moulding. 
The interior consists of a principal room, two com- 
mittee rooms, three chambers, and complete cellars 
under the whole. The principal room is forty-six 
feet diameter, and eighteen feet high, to the spring- 
ing of the ceiling, which is a dome, having the sole 
light from the centre ; the ceiling is plain, except a 
radii of lights in stucco, around the opening, and 
semi-circular architraves, with reversed mouldings 
at the springing. The sides consist of eight tall pe- 
destals, alternating with an equal number of recesses, 
which open to stairways, or intended additional 
rooms : these recesses also consist of a principal and 
attic pannels or openings : over these are arches, 
whose saffits obtrude into the dome, the eflfect of 
which is novel. ""^ 



• Port Folk>, June, 1809, 



316 SOCIETY OP ARTISTS. 

In the hall of statuary, the academy now has a fine 
collection of casts and busts from the most celebrated 
works of antiquity, consisting of about twenty-five 
statues and a much greater number of busts. The 
painting gallery is adorned with the two celebrated 
pictures of West, " Lear in the Storm," and " Ophe- 
lia in her madness," the property of Robert Fulton, 
esq. besides many other valuable pictures of ancient 
and modern masters. 

The first annual exhibition of the academy, in 
conjunction with the society of artists, was made in 
May last (1811) and consisted of above five hundred 
productions of the fine arts, displayed with great 
effect and taste ; the public encouragement of this 
first effort of this sort in this country, exceeded the 
most sanguine expectation. Two addresses have 
been made by the president, to the society ; and in 
November last, (1810) the first annual discourse^ 
was delivered by Mr. Hopkinson to a very brilliant 
and crowded audience ; which proves the interest 
our citizens take in this infant institution. After the 
discourse the honours of the academy, &c. were 
conferred upon several artists. 

President^ — George Clymer. 

Directors- — William Tilghman, P. F^ Glentworth, 
William Meredith, Joseph Hopkinsqn, William 
Rush, Samuel F. Bradford, Zaccheus Collins, 
James Gibson, Charles J. Wister, William PojTitellj 
Reeve Lewis, Rembrandt Peale. 

Society of Artists, 

In the year 1810, " the Society of Artists of the 
United States," was formed : the immediate objects 
of which are stated to be " to teach the elementary 

* For sale by Bradford and Inskeep. 



OLD COURT ITOUSE. S17 

/ 
principles of the arts: to encourage emulation by a- 
comparison and communication of ideas : to correct 
and improve the public taste by stated exhibitions^ 
and to raise a fund for the relief of such members 
as may be rendered incapable of following their res- 
pective professions; or in case of their death, to make 
some provision for their families. 

To carry these objects into effect, it is in the first 
instance, proposed to select proper persons to teach 
the first elements of the arts, and to establish a school 
for drawing, in all its various branches ; and an an- 
nual exhibition of the works of art,"* foreign and 
domestic. 

The President of the United States, at the request 
of the society, has become the patron of the institu- 
tion. 

Not long after its formation, a union was effected 
between the Society of Artists and the Academy, 
and in May last their first exhibition took place, as 
already stated, and continued for six weeks. 

On the 8th of May, Mr. Latrobe delivered the 
first annual address before the Society of Artists.f 

Public Buildings — Old Court House^ in Second streets 

This plain, ancient structure deserves notice on 
many accounts. It was erected in the year 1709, in 
the infancy of the capital, when within a square of 
it, the stately tenants of the forest still remained. 
In this building, Hamilton, Growden, Ross, Gal- 
loway, Ghew, Dickinson and Willson, commenced 
their career, as lawyers; and Kinsey and Allen dis- 
pensed justice from the bench. The celebrated George 
Whitfield too, delivered his eloquent discourses 



* Constitution of the Society of Artists^ 
j; For sale by Bradford and Inskeep. 

D d 3 



318 STATE HOUSE. 

from the balcony to assembled thousands.^ The 
elections of governor and president of the executive 
council, were proclaimed from the same place. 

For several years past, it has been occupied by the 
county and city commissioners, the clerks of the 
market, and at night, by the city watch. For half a 
century after its erection, public vendues were held 
under the arches of the house, and in no other place 
in the city. 

State House, 

Previously to the erection of the state house, the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, held their sessions in 
different private houses; the first of these was iti 
Front street, above Mulberry street, on the bank 
side, and was recently pulled down. For many years 
they occupied the house now in the possession of 
Mr. John Dorsey, auctioneer, in Front street, below 
Walnut street. In the year 1729, the legislature re- 
solved to build a house for their particular accom- 
modation, and appointed Andrew Hamilton, John 
Kearsley, and Thomas Lawrence, comnaissioners to 
purchase the ground, to give the plan, and to contract 
with the workmen. The whole expense was not 
quite six thousand pounds. It was finished in 1735, 
and though externally plain in its structure, has a 
venerable appearance. It was originally furnished 
with a steeple, which was taken down about the close 
of the revolutionary war. In this building the con- 
gress of the United States sat during the war^ before 

* A gentleman, recently deceased, often mentioned that he 
once distinctly heard Whitfield from on board a shallop at 
Market street wharf, and that the space between the wharf 
!ind court houss was filled with people. 



OLD COLLEGE. 319 

the year 17'82, at which time the clamors of a few 
soldiers for their pay, alarmed and induced them to 
move to other places. The declaration of indepen- 
dence was publicly read, from the steps, July 4th, 
1776. In the same room,^ that had been occupied 
by congress, the federal convention sat, in 1787. The 
house is now occupied by the supreme and district 
state courts below, and Peale's Museum above. 

Old College^ in Fourth street. 

This building stands sixty-six feet back from Fourth 
street, between High and Mulberry streets, and is 
one hundred and twenty feet long, and seventy feet 
wide. The whole lot is one hundred and ninety-eight, 
by one hundred and fifty feet. The house was ori- 
ginally built in 1740, by the party who left the first 
Presbyterian church to join the eloquent Whitfield 
but it appears, notwithstanding the zeal with which 
they attended his early preaching, they could not 
raise funds sufficient to pay the workmen. They 
accordingly sold it to the trustees of the college in 
1749, for £777^ 18, 11 3-4, upon condition that they 
shall set apart a place and room for worship, and 
also support a free school ; giving the trustees 
power to appoint teachers of school, and to intro- 
duce such preachers as they may think proper 
so that no particular sect be fixed therein as a 
settled congregation, and to permit the use of 
the room set apart for public worship, to such 
regular ministers of the gospel, as shall sign 
certain articles of religion annexed to the deed • 
particularly reserving the right of the use of the 
building to Whitfield, whenever he should desire to 
preach therein. This creed is contained in three folio 

* The east room on the first floor. 



320 UNITED STATES BANK. 

pages, sixteen inches long, and nine wide. It is merely 
a detail of strict Calvinism. The property, having 
been accepted, by the trustees, upon the above condi- 
tions, they have not deemed themselves authorised 
to sell the whole building ; but one half of it has 
been disposed of to the " Union Society of Metho- 
dists." They have also deemed themselves bound 
by the words of the conveyance, to permit the use 
of the room set apart for worship, to all itinerant 
ministers who apply for the same, and to such it has 
always been granted. It is also often occupied by 
the various city congregations, when their own 
places of worship are repairing, or when a colony is 
about leaving one of the established societies, and 
are desirous of erecting a new church. It is scarcely 
necessary to add, that in a city which prides itself in 
believing that religion is an affair between the Ma- 
ker and the made, a subscription to the creed is ne- 
ver required. 

United States Bank. 

The building occupied by the bank of the United 
States, was commenced in 1795, and finished in 1798. 
It was the first public buildingever erected in Philadel- 
phia, with portico and pillars. It is a square structure, 
ninety-six feet in front, and seventy-two deep. The 
east front, on Third street, consists of six columns, 
the angle pairs being coupled. The front wall ex- 
tends beyond the portico, on each side, in two wings, 
and is ornamented with pilasters. The columns, 
which are of the Corinthian order, are of marble, and 
fluted ; the front of the building is also marble. The 
cornice and pediment are of wood work, highly en- 
riched. The tympanum is decorated with the Ame* 
rican eagle. The front is said to be nearly a copy of 
the Dublin Exchange. The sides and rear walls pe 



BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA. 3^1 

©f brick, and excepting the four external walls and 
the vaults, the entire structure is of wood. The roof 
is covered with copper. 

Bank of Pennsylvania. 

This noble edifice is composed entirely of 
marble from the quarries in Montgomery county. 
The front extends fitty-one feet, and the whole build- 
ing, including the superb porticos front and back, 
is one hundred and twenty-five feet in depth. The 
design is taken from the temple of Minerva, at 
Athens. 

The principal front in Second street, is a portico, 
of six Ionic columns, three feet in diameter each, 
with an entablature and pediment. The front and 
back walls have no openings except the doors. The 
flanks are plain, without pilasters, divided into a 
centre mass, with two recessed wings. Each of these 
divisions has one large arched window, lighting the 
rooms of the president, cashier, and the banking 
room, and a pannel or window above. The west front 
has a portico, similar to that on the east end, under 
which is a large arch containing the west door, and 
two windows below, and three in the upper story. 
The entablature runs without interruption round the 
building. The centre mass of the building rises eight 
feet, in a plain Attic, above the entablature, and is co- 
vered with a marble roof, in two circular stages. Some 
of the blocks of marble, composing this root, weigh 
5, and some seven and a half tons. A circular cupola of 
eight windows, and 15 feet in diameter, covered with 
a dome, is carried up above the centre opening, and 
assists in lighting the banking room. This room is 
circular, and forty-five feet in diameter. Four 
niches, nine feet wide, and seventeen feet six inches 
high, and four equal recessed arches, containing the 
two doors, and the windows are arranged alternately 



322 PHILADELPHIA BANK. 

round the walls. The walls are thirty-eight feet eight 
inches high. The ceiling is a brick pannelled dome, 
rising only twelve feet six inches, surrounded by a 
marble dome, and covered by the cupola. The 
height from the floor of the hall, to the ceiling of 
the cupola, is sixty feet, eight inches. The base- 
ment story rises five feet above the pavement, and is 
vaulted throughout. To each portico the access is 
by ten steps, extending the entire length of the 
front. The stair cases are marble throughout. The 
whole of the interior, except the counters and desks, 
doors and floors, is incombustible. The bank is ju- 
diciously placed about thirty feet off from the street; 
in front are two neat marble watch houses. The lot 
in the rear is laid out in a grass plot, surrounded by 
a gravel walk, and the borders filled with ornamental 
trees and shrubs. The wall in front and rear is about 
four feet high, mounted with an iron palisade. The 
first stone was laid in April, 1799, and the whole 
finished in 1801. 

The above is a very inadequate description of this 
truly noble structure, the exterior of which univer- 
sally strikes the beholder with an idea q£^^ chaste 
simplicity and grandeur, not seen in any^Suilding 
in the United States; and according to the declara- 
tion of all foreigners of taste, is not surpassed by 
any in Europe. The architect was Mr. Latrobe, 
now of Washington, who has in the most grateful 
terms, acknowledged the assistance he derived from 
the refined taste, and judgment of Samuel M. Fox, 
the late president of the bank.^ 

Philadelphia Bank, 

Situate on the south v/est corner of Chesnut and 
Fourth streets, commands attention from the novelty 

* Oration before the Society of Artists. 



PHILADELPHIA BANK. 323 

of its design, being the first correct specimen of the 
style, called, improperly, the Gothic, executed in the 
United States. 

This building stands insulated, and presents its 
principal front on Fourth street. The grounds at- 
tached are laid out in gravelled walks and shrub- 
bery, and terminated west by lodges for the 
watchmen, built after the same style of the main, 
building. The whole enclosed by an iron palisade. 

The plan of the banking house is a square, sixty 
by forty-three feet. The walls are elevated on a 
stone basement to the height of twenty-six feet, ter- 
minated by battlements. At this elevation, the 
building contracts, in front, to thirty-two feet, and 
rising, forms a kind of attic or low story, fronted 
with four buttresses, two of which are crowned 
with marble fynials or pinnacles. 

The entrance into this building is from Fourth 
street by a flight of marble steps, through a vaulted 
porch into the banking room. This room occupies 
nearly the whole area of the plan, except what is 
necessarily taken up by the money vaults and stair 
case, and is handsomely divided into different com- 
partments suited to the several offices of the institu- 
tion, all lying open to the president and cashier's 
rooms. 

Every part of the building is vaulted from the 
cellar to the roof, and rendered fire proof. The 
banking room, which is twenty feet high, has its 
ceiling enriched with mouldings and tracery work ; 
ornaments of the "■ decorated style of building" of 
the 14th century. 

The archivaults of the president's and cashier's 
rooms, and of the doors leading to the money vaults 
and director's room, are terminated by the head of a 
dog (emblem of fidelity) in the act of guarding a pile 
of dollarsj upon which the head reclines. Four great 



534 COUNTY COUET HOUSE 8c CITY HALL. 

windows with pointed arches, filled with tracery- 
work, light the banking room. 

From a door leading out of this room, you enter 
^the stair case and ascend by a flight of marble steps, 
to the director's apartment of business. This is of a 
curious construction, being octangular in its form, 
from the centre of which rises a beautiful clouded 
marble column, carrying a vaulted ceiling, springing 
in every direction of the room. The general finish 
of this room varies a little from that below, partaking 
somewhat of the Anglo Norman style in the round pil- 
lars in the angles and the circular tracery, which, toge- 
ther with the painted arch particularize the character 
of this style. The ceiling is enriched with mouldings 
and decorated at their intersections with rosets, and 
a head representing Philadelphia. Two large win- 
dows light this apartment, decorated as those below. 
West of this, lie the library and engraver's rooms. 

The cellar or basement story is appropriated alto- 
gether for fuel and lumber, except one apartment 
which is occupied by the printing ojffice. The money 
and book vaults are very properly placed above the 
street level, both on account oi safety and ventilation. 
The Gothic style is preserved throughout the whole 
building. Had the original plan been pursued, of 
constructing this buildmg of stone instead oi bnck, 
its exterior appearance would have been much more 
interesting, and more in character of the style adopted. 
As it stands, it is a handsome structure and highly 
ornamental to our city. 

County Court House and City Hall, 

The former is at the S. W. corner of Chesnut and 
Fifth streets, and the latter, at the S. E. corner of 
Chesnut and Sixth streets. They are plain structures. 
In the former, the house of representatives sat be= 



¥N1VERS1TY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 325 

low, after the removal of the government from New 
York, and previously to its establishment at Wash- 
ington. The senate occupied the chamber, where the 
federal district court is now held. In the latter 
house, the mayor's office and mayor's court are held, 
on the first floor ; the city councils and city com- 
missioners sit up stairs. 

University of Pennsylvania, 

Is in Ninth street, between High and Chesnut 
streets, and was originally built by the state of Penn- 
sylvania, for the accommodation of the president of 
the United States, on the removal of the temporary 
seat of government from New York to Philadelphia. 
President Washington, however, declined the offer 
of it on constitutional grounds. It is about one hun- 
dred feet front, and nearly of the same depth. After 
remaining unoccupied for some years, it was pur- 
chased by the trustees of the university, for the use 
of that institution. 

The building is three stories high: the ascent is by 
a flight of marble steps, leading into a hall contain- 
ing the main stair case ; from this hall, you enter 
the grand vestibule which is surmounted by a dome 
lighted by a cupola : a gallery runs round the vesti- 
bule, and is supported by eight Corinthian columns, 
under which are the doors leading into the lecture 
rooms and apartments. Doors from the gallery also 
communicate with the apartments in the second 
story. The offices are in the basement story. The 
apartments are spacious, and accommodate the pro- 
vost and vice provost, besides the classes. 

Four years since, a separate building of an octan- 
gular form, crowned by a dome, was erected to the 

E e 



326 INDEPENDENT TABERNACLE. 

south, but connected with the former, for the express 
purpose oi holding the medical lectures. The rooms 
are calculated for each particular professor. 

The Independent Tabernacle^ 

Of which the Rev. Mr. Joyce is pastor, is situate 
up a court from Fourth street, between High and 
Chesnut streets. It was built in the years 1805 — 6, 
and with a great degree of neatness and simplicity. 
The form of its plan is a parallelogram, terminated 
at one end by a semi-circle, wherein stand the pulpit 
and choir. The exterior elevation, presents a range 
of semi-circular windows below, and a similar range 
of spacious windows above. The galleries are shal- 
low, and supported entirely irom the wall, except 
that fronting the pulpit, which is carried by columns. 
The pulpit is spacious, on each side of which are 
desks for the chief singers. The pews below, are 
one hundred and sixty-two in number, conveniently 
arranged, with spacious aisles. 

The whole dimensions of this building from out 
to out, are sixty by ninety feet. 

The Baptist Churchy 

Now erecting in Sansom or George street, above 
Eighth street, from the originality of its design, 
deserves a particular description. 

The plan of this church, within, is a rotundo, ninety 
feet diameter, surmounted by a dome, crowned with 
alanthorn or cupola, upwards of twenty feet diameter. 
The walls, with the dome, are elevated upwards of 
fifty feet above the ground, built of brick, and the 
dome constructed of short pieces of plank, upon the 
principle adopted in that of the Halle de Bled, at 
Paris. From the top of the walls, three steps encir- 



BAPTIST CIIURCIL :^27 

cle the building before the swell of the dome ap- 
pears, the rise of which is at an angle of forty-five 
degrees. In front and rear of the rotundo, square 
projections, of sixty feet extent, come forward ; that 
in the rear, to provide space for vestry rooms, rising- 
only one story ; that in the front, to accommodate 
the stair cases of the galleries, rising on a marble 
basement to the common height of the walls. 

The front projection comes to the line of the street, 
in form of wings, separated by a colonnade, and are 
crowned by two belfries or cupolas. 

The principal entrance into the church will be by a 
flight of marble steps into an Ionic colonnade j on 
either hand, are doors leading to the stair cases 
of the galleries : from this colonnade you pass 
through a great Venetian door into the grand aisle, 
leading direct to the baptistry and pulpit ; two other 
aisles are to run parallel with this, and one main aisle 
to cross the whole in the diameter of the church. At 
the termination of all these aisles, are doors of outlet 
from the building. The baptistry is situate in the 
centre of the circle, in view of every part of the 
gallery, and will be surrounded by an open balus- 
trade, and when not in use, for the ordinance of 
baptism, closed over by a floor to accommodate the 
choir. 

The galleries, which are described, concentric with 
the great circle, circumscribe the nave of the church, 
except in that section occupied by the pulpit, and 
are supported by twelve columns. The pulpit, which 
will be placed to front the grand aisle, is to be a 
continuation of the galleries, and to come forward, 
supported by a screen of columns. The space under 
the pulpit to be closed and throv/n into the vestry 
rooms behind, but may at any time be opened, the 
screen being constituted of folding doors. 



33S * THEATR^E. 

The circumference of the building is lighted by 
large square windows below, and a ring of semi- 
circular windows above the galleries. The great 
lanthorn of the dome, immediately over the baptis- 
try, lights the centre, and ventilates the whole 
church, being encircled with sashes which open and 
shut at pleasure. The height to the apex of this lan- 
thorn, from the floor, is upwards of fifty feet. 

The foot of the dome will be encompassed by a 
broad moulded band, above which two other bands 
will run round. The lanthorn also to have its soffit 
enriched with mouldings. 

The pews below will be so disposed as to run 
parallel with the transverse diameter of the room, 
the number of which, together with those in the 
galleries, will exceed three hundred and twenty, 
and with the public seats will contain, with comfort, 
upwards of two thousand five hundred people. 

The design of this building was furnished by Mr. 
Mills, a pupil of Mr. Latrobe, and as the direction 
of the execution of his design has been wisely com- 
mitted to him, we may anticipate that the building, 
when finished, will do credit to his talents, and prove 
an ornament to our city. 

Mr. Mills is the first American architect, regu- 
larly educated to the profession, in his own country. 

Theatre, 

The theatre was first opened in Philadelphia " by 
a company of comedians from London," on the 15th 
April 1754, with the '' Fair Penitent," and " Miss 
in her Teens ;" a prologue and epilogue, written for 
the occasion, were spoken by Mr. Rigby and Mrs. 
Hallam ; the part of " the servant" was performed 
by the late Mr., then " Master Lewis Hallam." 



THEATRE. 329 

The place of exhibition had been originally built 
for a store, and was situate in Water street, near 
Pine street, extending towards the Delaware. How 
long they played there, is uncertain. They after- 
wards erected a building expressly for their use in 
Cedar street, the S. W. corner of Vernon street, then 
in the outskirts of the city. Whde performing here, 
Mr. Douglass joined the corps, who after a few 
years, went to Jamaica, where he was appointed 
king's printer. At the date of their first exhibition, 
popular prejudices were powerful against every spe- 
cies of theatrical exhibition, and petitions were more 
than once presented to the legislatuie, to put a stop 
to them* The synod of the Presbyterians, in a general 
convocation, July 1759, also lent the aid of their in- 
fluence against the theatre, by petitions to the go- 
vernor, and to thq legislature, which were published ; 
and a few days after, the theatrical corps announced 
for exhibition, the ''• Tragedy of Douglass, by the 
Rev. Mr. Home, minister of the kirk of Scotland." 

Sometime before the revolationary war, the theatre 
in Cedar street, between Fourth and Filth streets, 
was erected by the elder Mr. Hallam and the 
late Mr. Henry. Before the commencement of hos- 
tilities the whole corps embarked for Jamaica, where 
they remained until a^ter the peace, when they again 
returned to this country ; but a law of the state pre- 
vented their performing for several years. In 1793, 
Mr. Wigneli, who tormerly belonged to the old 
company, arrived with a number of excellent per- 
formers, Irom England, who commenced their career 
the following winter, in the New 1 heatre, in Ches- 
nut street, which had been recently built by a com- 
pany upon a tontine principle. 

It is but justice to say, that, whenever required, 
the proprietors of the theatre have cheerfully lent 
their assistance in promoting any undertaking for 

E e 2 



336 THEATRE. 

the public good, and that occasionally the interest 
of religion has been promoted by their benefactions ; 
but the poor, the public charitable institutions for 
medical relief, and those for gratuitous education, 
nay the afflicted, whether from fire or pestilence, in 
other cities of the union, have on numerous occasions 
received the benefit of their voluntary labours. 

The theatre in Chesnut, near Sixth street, was 
founded in the year 1791 ; and enlarged and im- 
proved, as it now stands, in 1 805. It presents a hand- 
some front on Chesnut street, of ninety feet, includ- 
ing two wings, of fifteen feet each. The centre 
building is ornamented with two spirited and well 
executed figures, of tragedy and comedy,* on each 
side of a great Venetian window, over which, in two 
circular tablets, are emblematical insignia. The top 
of this centre building is crowned by a pediment. 
The wings, opened by large windows, recede a little 
from the front, above, but project below, twelve feet, 
to the line of the street, faced with marble ; these 
pavilions are decorated by emblematic figures, in ta- 
blets, and connected together by a colonnade of ten 
fancy Corinthian columns. The extreme depth of the 
theatre is one hundred and thirty-four feet ; the in- 
terior is judiciously and handsomely arranged. In 
the wings are the green room, dressing rooms, scene 
rooms, &c. Through the projecting wings or pavi- 
lions, you pass to the stairs of the galleries ; under 
the colonnade, the left hand door leads to the pit, 
but to the boxes you ascend in front, by a flight of 
marble steps, enter the lobby and pass to the corri- 
dors, which communicate with all the boxes. Those 
in front of the stage are disposed in form of an am- 
phitheatre; the seats of the whole, with those of the 



* Bv Rush-. 



CIRCUS. 331 

pit and gallery, are arranged so as to give the spec- 
tator the greatest advantages. 

The stage occupies a ront between the boxes of 
thirty-six feet, and runs back upwards of seventy- 
one feet. Over the stage, occupying part of the en- 
tablature and plafond of the front scene, is an em- 
blematic representation of America, encouraging the 
drama, under which are the words, " For useful 
mirth, and salutary woe." 

The fronts of the lodges or boxes, together with 
the ceiling, are handsomely gilt and decorated, hung 
with corresponding drapery between the columns. 
The scenery of the stage is well arranged, and calcu- 
lated both in execution and design to produce the 
best effect. 

For convenience, comfort and elegance of ar- 
rangement, few theatres of the size, any where, can 
vie with this. 

This theatre is computed to hold about two 
thousand persons, of which number nine hundred 
may be accommodated in the boxes. 

The Circus, now the Olympic Theatre, 

Of Messrs. Pepin and Brechard, which stands on 
the corner of Walnut and Ninth streets, was built in 
the year 1809. The dimensions, eighty feet on Wal- 
nut, by one hundred feet on Ninth street. Within, it 
was circular, seventy-five feet diameter, including the 
seats, and fifty-four feet, including the area of the 
riding course. Every office, connected with the cir- 
cus, was under this roof. Within the present year the 
building has undergone great improvements and ad- 
ditions ; the design of which is, the connection of a 
theatre with the circus, similar to Sadler's Wells, in 
London, wherein pantomimes, Olympic exercises, 



335 MASONIC HALL. 

and such other entertainments as are adapted to this 
species of amusement, are represented. The riding 
course will remain as it is, and from the termination 
of the amphitheatre, a straight line of boxes pro- 
ceed, till they intersect the stage. This stage has a 
spacious front, without the avant scene, of fifty-four 
feet, equal to the diameter of the circus. The or*- 
chestra lies between the stage and riding course, on 
each side of which is a door way from under the 
stage, for the introduction of the riders into the cir- 
cus. The additions to the original building make 
the whole depth equal to one hundred and forty feet. 

The entrance into the circus is by Walnut street. 
The pit is on a level with the riding course ; the 
lodges or boxes are on a level with the stage — a cor- 
ridor, or passage, communicates with all of them. 
On this floor are rooms for retreshn<ents ; above the 
boxes are the galleries, part of which is allotted-to 
an upper tier of boxes. 

The performances at the circus, are highly enter- 
taining. It is difficult to conceive of greater feats of 
agility than are exhibited by the performers. The 
new arrangements will render the exhibitions more 
interesting and diversified. 

Masonic HalL 

This spacious and elegant building is situate in 
Chesnut, between Seventh and Eighth streets. The 
lot is one hundred and one (eet, seven inches in front, 
on Chesnut street, extending in depth one hundred 
and seventy-six leet, to a new twenty ieet street, 
which has been opened in the rear of the lot. 

The building is placed about the centre of the lot 
so as to afford a handsome area in front, laid out in 
4valks, skirted with grass and shrubbery, enclosed 



MASONIC HALL. 333 

by a dwarf wall, surmounted by an iron palisade, and 
having two Gothic gates ot the same material attached 
to white marble pillars, capped with Gothic pinnacles, 
(corresponding with those hereafter mentioned) on 
the summit of the wall. 

The front of the building is eighty-two feet, and its 
depth, sixty-nine feet ; its height, to the top of the 
roof, seventy feet, and from thence to the top of the 
spire, including the vane, eighty feet. It is of brick, 
designed in the Gothic style, having in front, four 
marble buttresses, of four feet in breadth, extending 
from a basement, four feet high, to the roof, and 
capped with pinnacles. In these buttresses are two 
niches, eight feet in height, and two and a half feet 
wide, finished with tracery. There are eight win- 
dows, fourteen by six feet, with an elegant central 
window^ over the entrance, eleven by eighteen feet. 

The ascent to the principal story is by a 
flight of marble steps, seventeen feet long, sup- 
ported between two cheek blocks, four feet in 
height and five feet in breadth: the ornaments on 
which are the admired quarter foil pannel, sur- 
mounted by iron lamp-pieds, of a construction agree- 
ing with the style of the building. The door v/ay and 
vestibule are enriched with appropriate ornaments : 
over the door, the large window is conspicuously and 
beautifully disposed, beneath a regular ox-eye arch. 
The internal arrangement of the hall exhibits an admi- 
rable union of beauty and convenience. The vestibule, 
twenty-nine by twelvefeet, is finished in superior 
style, and conducts to the great room on the principal 
floor, which is seventy-eight feet long by thirty-six 
feet wide; the ceiling (highly ornamented in stucco,) 
twenty-two feet in height: the centre, spandrills and 
soffits are very beautiful. The music gallery is at the 
eastern end. On this floor are two other neatly finish« 



334 MASONIC HALL. 

ed apartments, one of them twenty-two by thirty - 
three feet, and the other seventeen by thirty -three 
feet. The division of the height o* the first sto- 
ry in the southern part o^ the building mto two 
parts, furnishes two other commodious rooms, im- 
mediately over, and of the same dimensions as those 
just mentioned. The ascent to the second story is 
through a spacious hall, to which there are entrances 
from the easf and west sides o. the building, as well 
as the iront, by a geometrical stair case with maho- 
gany hand rail, supported by a neat balustrade of curl- 
ed maple. 

The northern division of the second story is ap- 
propriated to the accommodation oi the grand lodge, 
and the stated meetings of the subordinate lodges, 
and consists of one splendid room, sixty feet in 
length by thirty-six feet four inches in breadth, with 
various adjoining apartments, adapted to the business 
ot the institution. This room is finished in a style of 
superior elegance, and the furniture and decorations 
are uncommonly splendid. They are probably not 
surpassed by those of any similar society. 

The southern part of the second story is divided 
into a banqueting room) thirty-six by twenty feet ; a 
room for the accommodation, more especially of the 
several chapters of royal arch masons, twenty-nine 
by thirty-six feet j and several smaller apartments. 
The chapter room is fitted up and furnished in a 
style oi equal splendour and beauty, though of dissi- 
milar character of architectural decorations and in- 
signia, with the grand lodge room, combined with 
every peculiar convenience required by that interest- 
ing degree oi the order. 

This edifice is undoubtedly a considerable addi- 
tion to the many rapid improvements in architec- 
ture, which have taken place in this city, within a 



CITY HOSPITAL. 33^5 

few years past, and is highly honourable to the laud- 
able zeal and enterprize of the respectable society 
who are its proprietors. The addition of its beautiful 
spire took place on the suggestion of several res- 
pectable citizens, who regretted our deficiency in an 
article of embellishment so essential to the beauty 
of a great city. 

The City Hospital^ 

Situate on the west side of Schuylkill Fourth 
street, near the intersection of Francis's Lane, in 
West Northern Liberties, was erected for the re- 
ception of patients, from the city and vicinity, labour- 
ing under malignant fever. This spacious and exten- 
sive range of buildings was commenced by a former 
board of health in 1807, and recently completed by 
the present, and consists oi a mansion house, fi;ty feet 
front by forty two feet deep, and three stories in 
height ; with wings running east and west, each, one 
hundred and eight feet long, by twenty-two feet 
deep, and two stories high ; with a piazza twelve 
feet broad, extending the whole length, enclosed 
with Venetian blinds, so constructed as to admit or 
exclude air and light as occasion may require. The 
mansion house contains twenty rooms, and the 
wings thirty-six ; exclusive oi cellars and garrets. 
The rooms, generally speaking, are judiciously plan- 
ned for the comfort and accommodation oi patients ; 
water is admitted into each room by means of pipes, 
communicating with a reservoir supplied by a pump. 
Pure air can be admitted into the rooms by ventila- 
tors, and impure air discharged. Four or five hun- 
dred patients, it is presumed, may be conveniently 
accommodated, exclusive of the room necessary for 
a steward, physician, and the requisite attendants. 



3o6 LITERARY CHARACTERS, 

The buildings front the south, and are sufficiently 
near the city to admit of the safe and convenient 
removal of the sick. 

When selecting a site for so useful and necessary 
an institution, as a city hospital, it is much to be 
regretted that a more elevated situation was not 
chosen, commanding a view of the city : it might 
then have been ranked among the ornamental build- 
ings in its vicinity, and would also have been equally 
convenient and free of access, as the present. 

Public officers, in erecting permanent structures, 
ought always to consider, that the credit of a coun- 
try is connected with the taste and situation of the 
public buildings, and when the purposes to which 
they are to be applied will admit, attention ought 
always to be paid to both. 

Literary Characters* 

girths. Deaths. 

1674-— 1751. James Logan. Classical and Oriental 
Literature, Law, Politics, Botany. 
Thomas Makin. Latin Description o£ 
Pennsylvania. 

1701.— -1777. John Bartram. Botany. 

1702 — 1764. Gilbert Tennant. Sermons. 

1705 — 1779. Francis Allison, D. D. Classical Li- 
terature, Divinity. 

1706 — 1790. Benjamin Franklin. Natural Philo- 
sophy, Politics. 4 vols, of his works 
have been recently published by 
Wm. Duane, of Philadelphia. 

1712 Ebenezer Kinnersley, Natural Philo- 

sophy.^ 

* See Fcanklin's Experiments and Observations on Electricity. 
Ijondon 17^9. In this -work Dr. Franklin makes acknowledg- 
ments to his friends, Thomas Hopkinson, Philip Syng and 
others, for their assistance and hints. 



LITERARY CHARAeTERS. -337 

Births. Deaths. 

1722 — 1793. James Sproat. Sermons. 

1722 — 1808. John Redmap, M. D. Medicine. 

1728 — 1803. Wm. Smith, D. D. Sermons, Astro- 
nomy. His works in 2 vols, were 
published last year by his son 
Charles. 

1732—1803. John Ewing, D. D. Mathematics, 
Astronomy, Natm-al Philosophy, 
His lectures on Natural Philosophy, 
have been pubhshed in 1 vol. 8vo. 

1732 — 1796. David Rittenhouse. Astronomy. 

1735 — 1789. John Morgan, M. D. Medicine. 

1736 — 1763. Thomas Godfrey.*^ Poetry. Plays. 

1738 — 1791. Francis Hopkaison. Law. Miscella- 
neous Literature. Works in 3 vols. 
8vo. 

1742 — 1767. Nath. Evans. Poetry. 

1742 — 1798. James Wilson. Law Lectures. His 
works are published m 3 vols. 8vo. 
Lewis Evans. Map ol the Middle 
Colonies. Analysis of the stime. 
Published 1755. 
Nicholas Scull. Map of Pennsylvania. 
Published 1759. 
1^91. Peter Markoe. Poetry. 

1755 — 1795. Wm. Bradford. Inquiry how far the 
punishment of death is necessary 
in Pennsylvania, 1793. 
1 793. W^m. Waring. M echanical Philosophy. 

1739 — 1798. Jacob Duche. Sermons. 2 vols. 

1777 — 1804. John B. Limi. Poetry. Theology. 

1734 — 1808. J. Dickmson. Pol.t]cs. Works in 2 vols. 

1809. James Stewart, M. D. Medicine. 

1810. Charles B. Brown. Miscellaneous 

Literature. 

* Son of Thomas Godfrey, inventor of the quadrant, called 
llaclJley's 'quadrant, 

E f 



335 PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 



Franklin^ s Leg'acy, 

Dr. Franklin left one thousand pounds sterling to 
the corporation of the city, for the purpose of loaning 
''• to such young married artificers, under the age of 
twenty-five years, as have served an apprenticeship 
in the city, and laithfully fulfilled the duties required 
in their indentures," Two sureties are required to 
sign a bond, with the applicant, ior the repayment of 
the money j the sums are to be proportioned by the 
discretion of the managers ; but none are to exceed 
jf60, nor to be less than £\5 to each applicant. In 
order to serve as many as possible in their turn, as 
\\re\\ as to make the repayment of the principal bor- 
rowed, more easy, each borrower is required to 
pay, with the yearly interest, one tenth part of the 
principal, which sum of principal and interest, shall 
be again lent out to fresh borrowers. The interest is 
to be at the rate of five per cent, that is, one per cent, 
lower than the interest as established by law. The 
corporation of the city were intrusted with the fund, 
and requested to undertake the management of it ; 
and agreeably to the desire of the donor, it has been 
regularly loaned, and, at the present time, has in- 
creased to more than double the original sum. The 
following is the last statement of this fund, by the 
city treasurer. 

Amount of interest at five per cent on obli- 
gations, on 31st December, 1810, ^9,063 00 
Balance in the treasury, 483 80 



9,546 80 



J'Jeduct amount of the legacy, originally 

tmc tnousand pounds, sterling, 4,444 44 

Increase of the legacy on 31st December, 

1810, ^,103 36 



PlJlUJC BKJ^EFACrOUS. ,^3^ 

The principle that actuated the hiticvolciit deviser 
of the legacy was certainly highly praiseworthy, 
viz. the " assistance of young married artificerH in 
setting up their business ;" and originated from 
what occurred to himself. **■ I have considered," h( 
remarks, " that among artizans, good apprentices 
are most likely to make good citizens, and having 
myself been bred to a nuumal att, jjrinling, in my 
native town, and afterwards assisted to set u\) n)y 
business in Philadelphia, l)y kind loans of money 
from two friends thei-e, which was the foundation of 
my fortune, and of all the utility in life, that may 
be ascribed to me : I wish to be useful even alter n^y 
death, if possible, in forming and advancing olhvr 
young men, that may be serviceable to their coun- 
try." 

At the end of one hundred years, if not done 
before, one hundred thousand pounds of the capital 
is to be employed in bringing tlie waters qi' the 
Wissahickon creek into the town, so as to su[){)ly 
the inhabitants. He also recommends making the 
Schuylkill completely navigal)le. At the end oif the 
second hundred years, lour millions, sixty-one thou- 
sand pounds are to be divided between the inhabi- 
tants of the city of Philadelphia, and the govern- 
ment of Pennsylvania. 

Two thousand pounds were left by Br. Franklin 
to the town of lioston, his native place, lor purposes 
similar to the above. 

Private Provision for the Poor, 

In p. 292, is given an account of the public provision 
for the support of the poor of the city ancl count), 
who are incapable of earning their living, by reason 
of age, or chronic disability, or who are sick and 
unable to pay for medical relief ; there is also relic!, 



340 PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 

of other natures provided for them, owing to the 
bounty of individuals. 

1. '' The Fund for supplying the Necessitous Poor 
of the City ol Philadelphia with Fuel,'' consists of 
the followmg species ol stock, viz. 

One thousand nine hundred and thirty-two dollars 
eighty-eight cents of 3 per cent, stock of the United 
States. This stock was purchased by the proceeds 
of a periormance in horsemanship, at the Old Circus, 
by the late Mr. Ricketts. 

Four shares oi stock of the bank of Pennsylvania. 
This stock is a part of the proceeds of the old free 
masons lodge, in Lodge Alley, on part of the lot 
now occupied by the bank of Pennsylvania, and was 
sold under an act of the legislature of Pennsylvania, 
of 6th September, 1785.* 

Fifty shares of water loan. 

Twenty-seven of said shares were produced by a 
legacy of one thousand pounds, given by the late 
John Bleakley, esq. by his will, dated 19th April, 
1802, to the corporation of the city of Philadelphia, 
OS a fund to procure fuel during the winter season, 
&:€. and the remaming 

Twenty-three shares were produced by the sum of 
two thousand two hundred and seventy-eight dollars 
fifty-nine cents, being the residuary legacy of Eli- 
zabeth Kearkpatrick,f which she bequeathed to the 
said corporation ior the benefit ot the poor. 

The annual proceeds of said stock is as follows, viz. 
Interest on\Sl932, 88, of 3 per cent. ^57 96 

Dividends on the 4 bank shares, 128 

Interest on the 50 shares water loan, 300 

.S485 96 



* See p. 290. 

f The willow of a house carpenter. 



PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 341 

The above is distributed amongst the poor of the 
city, in wood. 

2. " The Fund, to relieve those who may be re- 
duced to the necessity of being placed in tlie City 
Hospital, during the existence ol the Yellow Fever,'^ 
consists of the following stock, viz. 

Twenty seven shares of water loan were produced 
by a legacy of one thousand pounds, which the laLc 
John Bleakley, esq. by his will, dated 19th April, 
1802, gave to the corporation of the city of Philadel- 
phia, to establish a fund under the above name. 

During the yellow fevers of 1803 and 1805, the 
interest on the above stock was paid over to the 
board of health. 

The city having, providentially, liad no visitation 
of the yellow fever since 1805, the interest which 
accrued on the above stock was, in the beginning oi 
1811, directed by the councils to be Investeii in 
stock ; and it procured eight shares of water loan. 

So that said fund now consists of thirty-live shares 
of water loan, giving an annual interest oi two hiiii- 
dred and ten dollars. 

Among the distinguished benefactors of Phihi- 
delphia, the late John Keble stands conspicuous, 
he having lell a very large sum in the hands of the 
episcopal ministers ol Philadelphia, to be distriljuted 
to pious and charitable purposes, according to their 
judgment. 

Mr. Keblc was indebted to the charity of the 
" Blue Coat Hospital oi London," for his education. 
He arrived in this country very young, and was foi- 
a long series of years a clerk in the land office oi 
Pennsylvania. This situation i'urnished him with the 
opportunity of acquiring land upon advantageous 
terms, and of selling again to a profit to the large 
speculators, at the time when the land mania pre- 
vailed. Hiis expenses being but small, and his in- 

F i 2 



342 PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 

dustry vmceasing, he accumulated a very large for- 
tune. By his marriage he acquired some property, 
which he by will bequeathed among^his wife's rela- 
tions. The residue oi his estate, except some trifling 
legacies, he left to the trustees before-mentioned* 

The distribution was as follows : 
To the contributors oi the Pennsylvania 

hospital, - - - g20,800 

To the Philadelphia dispensary, - 16,812 94 

To the Magdalen Society, - - 14,580 78 
To the Welsh Society, - - 3,0/7 74> 

To the Humane Society, - -• 2,218 50 

To the Society for the Relief of Poor 
and aged Members of the German Lu- 
theran Congregation in the City of 
Philadelphia, &c, - - 1,075 

To the Pennsylvania Society for the 

abolition oi Slavery, &c. - 1,096 

To the Philadelphia Society for the Es- 
tablishment and Support of Charity 
Schools, - - - 3,184 50 

To the Hibernian Society for the Relief 

oi Emigrants ii'om Ireland, &c. - 3,127 94 
To the German Society contributing for 

the Reliei oi distressed Germans, &c. 3,271 94 
To the Society lor the Relief of Poor and 

distressed Masters oi Ships, &c. 5,335 50 

To the Society tor the Institution and 

Support ol Sunday Schools, &Ce - 2,198 
To the Scots Thistle Society, - 3,349 17 

To the University ot Pennsylvania, - 7,413 83 
To the Academy of the Protestant Epis- 
copal Church, in the city of Philadel- 
phia, » - . - 15,057 63 
To the Philadelphia French Benevolent 

Society, ^ , ^ » 704 64 

^103,114 11 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 3*^ 

The late William Carter, and — ^ Petty, two 
of the early inhabitants of Philadelphia, left one hun- 
dred dollars each, to be laid out in bread, to be an- 
nually distributed to the poor of the city, by the 
board of guardians. An additional provision for a 
supply of bread to the poor, arises from a donation 
of the late John Thompson, of two hundred dollars, 
which sum is to be equally divided every year be- 
tween the " Female Society for the employment of 
the poor ;" and the " Female Hospitable Society." 

The following was omitted to be noticed among 
the charitable societies : 

Society for Promoting Vaccination among the Poor* 

On the 10th of March, 1809, a number of persons 
had a meeting, and declared by the following minute, 
" That the object of their assembling, was to consider 
of the expediency of establishing a society for pro- 
moting vaccination, a preventive of the small pox, 
especially among the poorer class of society." On 
the 29th of the same month, a constitution was pro- 
posed and adopted, which provides ior the appoint- 
ment of an acting committee oi twelve members, a 
clerk, treasurer, and six physicians ; it also directs 
that each Individual admitted into membership shall 
pay two dollars, and an annual subscription. 

The members oi the society are divided into com- 
mittees, and suitable districts of the city and liber- 
ties, being assigned to them, it is their duty to seek 
for objects recognsed by the association, and report 
them to the physicians, M'ho call at their respective 
dwellings, and vaccinate them ;ree of expense. 

The physicians are paid by the society Tor their 
professional services. The association is encouraged 



344 TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 

to persevere in its labours, having already had about 
three thousand persons vaccinated. 

Tours in the Vicinity of Philadelphia, 

No city in the United States alFords so many di- 
versified rides in its immediate vicinity, as Phila- 
delphia, Almost every street leads to a new route, 
which after a short distance, is crossed by other 
roads that lead back to the city, so that the ride 
may at any time be shortened at pleasure, without 
the necessity of returning by the same route that you 
took when going out. 

The following tours are in particular worth notice. 

Proceeding down Fifth street, you enter the Pas- 
syunk road, and pass numerous gardens that supply 
the Philadelphia markets with vegetables ; and se- 
veral cross roads that lead to the Gloucester point 
road, and to the lower bridge on Schuylkill. At the 
distance of about three miles, by turning off to the 
left at the " Blue ball tavern," you come to the lux- 
uriant meadows of Schuylkill point or Greenwich, 
where a practical farmer, or an amateur, will be 
highly gratified by viewing grass fields, in the high- 
est possible state of cultivation, and covered with 
noble cattle. These meadows form the neck of land 
between the Delaware and Schuylkill, the inroads of 
which, on the exposed part, are defended by a strong 
bank, laced with stone. ^ 

Returning irom those charming fields, to the main 
road, we pass many natural meadows, extending to 
the Schuylkill, upon crossing which, we land on State 
island. Turning the eye to the left, on the Delaware 

* The owners o£ those meadows are incorporated by law, and 
support the banks out of a common fund. 



TOUR^ IN THE VICINITY. 345 

bliore, we see two rows of buildings, part of which 
were erected at an early period, and used until 1801, 
as a lazaretto, ior the reception of sick persons ar- 
riving irom sea. Here the peaceable French settlers 
from Nova Scotia, were landed, and accommodated 
for some time, after being cruelly shipped off, and 
their settlement destroyed, by an English naval 
force, about the year 1756. To the south east and 
beyond these buildings, the flag at Fort Mifflin is 
seen. Persons desirous of viewing that interesting 
spot, may readily find a conveyance by inquiring 
at the ferry tavern. State island is the great resort 
of snipes and woodcocks, and on that account much 
frequented by our sportsmen. 

Proceeding down through an immense extent of 
meadows, equal in richness and produce to any in 
the world, for about a mile and a half, the load 
turns off to the right, and comes out at the " Blue 
bell inn," on the Chester road,^ or if a greater extent 
of ride be desired, after having proceeded along the 
right hand road a small distance, the first road to the 
left, at the south end of" Boon's dam," may be taken; 
this leads through extensive natural meadows to Darby 
creek. The distance is about five miles, and the road 
level. In sight of the creek, on the Delaware, are the 
new Lazaretto, and the buildings connected with 
that establishment. Crossing the creek, in a scow, 
you come shortly into the southern post road, at the, 
eleven mile stone ; turning to the left, you are with- 
in four miles of the town of Chester. At the first 
creek, from the turn off, on this road, is the tan yard 
of Messrs. M'llvains, where the curious may see 
the various manipulations in tanning leather, per- 

* The spade and shovel manufactory, at the Bell, will afford 
amusement to those who have not seea the process of making 
those common tools» 



345 TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 

formed by means of mechanical contrivances, which 
greatly diminish the labour of the process. 

Chester is the seat of justice of Delaware county, 
and in the early settlement of the province was a 
place of considerable note. The Swedes who first 
settled in the town and adjacent land, named it 
" Upland," after a province in their own country. 
It was here that the first English settlers landed, and 
that Penn assembled the first representatives, and 
held the first court of justice. The houstr, in which 
the legislature sat, was standing a few years since. 

In the church yard, upon the back of a dark stone, 
raised beneath an old elm, is the following inscrip- 
tion. 

In Barbarian bondage 

And cruel tyranny 

For ten years together 

I served in slavery 

After this mercy brought me 

To my country fair 

At last I drowned was 

In river Delaware. 

On the other side is the following inscription : 

For 

The memory of Francis Brooke 

who died August the 19th 

iro4 

Aged 50 years. 
If a more distant excursion, or a view of the cele- 
brated flour mills on Brandywine, be desirable, the 
main road to Wilmington may be taken. The mills 
are thickly placed on each side the stream ; and at 
one, or more of them, may be seen the various ope- 
rations of the manufacture of flour, irom the hoisting 
up of the grain from the shallop, to the packing of 
the flour in a barrel, performed by the ingenious ma- 



TOURS, IN THE VICINITV. Bit 

chinery of our countryman, and self taught genius j 
Oliver Evans. 

Proceeding to the westward, by way of High 
street, the first object that strikes the attention is the 
bridge, over the Schuylkill ; designed by that origi* 
nal and self taught genius Timothy Palmer, of 
Newburyport.* From the middle of this bridge, es° 
pecially u the tide be up, the eye will be gratified by 
a fine prospect of both shores, some handsome 
country seats being on the bank, and the land agree- 
ably undulated : the United States arsenal is seen in 
a south-eastern direction, distant about two miles. 
Proceeding over the river, and ascending the hill, we 
come to the board-yard of Messrs. M'llvains, where a 
few minutes may be agreeably passed away in view- 
ing an expeditious contrivance to dress shingles, by 
knives fixed in a wheel, which is connected with a 
shaft, and turned by a horse. A man and boy will 
readily dress, carry out and pile away two thousand 
in a day, but by attaching the works to a water 
wheel, the same hands could finish three thousand 
shingles daily. Two sets of hands might be employed 
on the same machine. The turnpike, leading to Lan- 
caster, takes to the right : the road due west, leads 
through the village of Hamilton, in sight, to West 
Chester, distant twenty-three miles. 

The great southern post road passes to the left : 
proceeding down it, you have a fine view of the city; 
and on the right are seen the progressive inclosures 
and improvements of land, which, after the woods 
had been cut down, was suffered to grow up into a 
thicket, almost impenetrable, until the recent sale of 
the lots ; and in a few years the land will be covered 



* For a particular account of the bridg-e, see the Memoirs of 
the Agricultural Society, Philadelphia. Vol. I. 



sits TOURS m THE VICINITY. 

with the boxes of the citizens, whose avocations 
yti^j not permit a more distant retreat from the heat 
of the town. 

At the distance of about a mile, is the " Wood- 
lands," the elegant seat of William Hamilton, esq. 
to which every genteel stranger has ready access. 
Here every thing will be seen, that can charm the 
eve, or gratify the admirer of rural scenery, the man 
of taste, the botanist, or lover of fine arts. 

About two miles down the same road, a white 
gate, on the left, points out the entrance to the bo- 
tanic garden of Mr. Bartram, which was begun about 
eighty -three years since, by John Bartram, and con- 
tains about eight acres. From the house there is a 
gentle descent to the river Schuylkill ; from the bank 
Oi which a fine prospect opens of that river, and of 
rich meadows up and down on both sides. The De- 
laware is also seen at a distance. The garden con- 
tains many of the tall southern forest trees, which 
have been successively introduced by the father, or 
his son William, and have been naturalized, among 
which the iollowing deserve particular notice. 

Cupressus disticha, bald cypress ; Pinus palustris, 
long leaved pine; Magnolia auriculata ; M. tripetala ; 
M. grandifiora. Franklinea Alatamaha, CEsculus pa- 
via, CE. flava, horse chesnut; besides many shrubs of 
great beauty and excellence : of all which supplies 
ma) be had. If the ride be continued to Chester, a 
stop may be made at the " Plough Inn," about three 
miles below Darby, irom which place there is a 
charming prospect in clear weather, of the Delaware, 
and the intermediate fields. 

North Eastern Route, 

Passing up Front street as far as the hay scales^ 
take the right hand road, and crossing the turnpike, 
(leadmg to Frankford, Bristol, Sec.) you ride on the 



TOURS IN TPIE VICINITY. 349 

bank of the Delaware through Kensington, called 
Shakamexunk by the natives j here, in addition to the 
pleasing spectacle v/hich is exhibited, of ship build- 
ing, in all the various stages, you are gratified with 
a fine view of the harbour of Philadelphia; and of 
the village of Camden and Cooper's ferry, on the op- 
posite shore. It was here too, tradition tells us, that 
William Penn formed his first treaty with the 
Indian natives, in 1682: the stump of a venera-* 
ble elm tree, . (blown down March 3, 1810,) the 
branches of which is said to have formed a canopy for 
the peaceful counsellors, may yet be seen on the 
bank, (immediately in front of a singularly con- 
structed, and ancient edifice) the on?y frail memorial 
to designate the spot where that primitive, and ce- 
lebrated negociation was conducted. 

Leaving the river, you go to what is called the 
Point no Point road, passing the glass house, on 
the right; and in addition to extensive market gar- 
dens, and several handsome summer retreats, you 
cannot fail to be interested by beholding a range of 
meadow, three miles long, banked in from the Dela- 
ware, on which herds of cattle are seen grazing. 
Having progressed six miles up the Point no Point 
road, you may visit an inn, to which the right 
hand way conducts, or taking the left, may cross 
Frankford creek, to a village of that name, now ia 
sight. After crossing the creek, the right hand road 
affords a very pleasant ride, and comes out above 
Holmesburgh, distant eleven miles from town. From 
Frankford you may pass down the turnpike to 
the city, and if you please, call at Harrowgate, about 
a mile below the town, on the right. When you have 
reached the city, from hence, your ride will have been 
fourteen miles. If, when at Frankford, inclination 
prompt to a more extensive tour, you may pass up 
the turnpike, seven miles, to the Fox Chase tavern ; 



350 TOURS IN THE VICINITT. 

a spacious white edifice, and well provided inn, sir-, 
tuated at the junction of two roads ; here you may 
deliberate whether, by pursuing the right hand one, 
you will visit Bath, an elegant establishment, one mile . 
northward of Bristol, and twenty miles from Phi- 
ladelphia,* or take the left, and pass over a fine 
country, through the village of Morrisville, and 
thence across the Delaware bridge to the city of 
Trenton, in New Jersey. From Trenton you may 
return by the post road, through Bristol, and visit 
the rural city of Burlington, immediately opposite to 
it, on the New Jersey shore. 

From Frankibrd you may take another course. 
At the upper end of the village a road passes off from 
the turnpike to the left hand; pursuing this, you ride 
a few miles, passing Oxford church ; thence, a short 
distance to a place called the Fox Chase; here it will 
be proper to inquire the most direct way past 
Friend's meeting house, (Abington,)| near which is 
the cave, for many years inhabited by the celebrated 
Benjamin Lay, a singular but pious character, to 
Jenkin Town : being now ten miles from the city, 
you may either return there or proceed northwardly, 
four miles, to Willow Grove, where, at Rex's tavern, 
you can be well entertained : here is also a fine 
spring, highly impregnated with iron, and a spacious 
bath house, supplied with the mineral water, for the 
accommodation of visitors. 

North Route* 

The most direct way to Germantown, is to pass 
up Third street, at the extremity of which, you meet 

* The water is chalybeate, and highly useful in cases of pure 
debility, gravel, jaundice, &c. 

\ Ti\is place is very healthful ; there is ^also a chalybeate 
Hpring- of considerable po werSi 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 3^1 

the turnpike road, and at the distance of six miles 
from the city, reach that healthful village. There, 
are to be had the well known woollen hosiery, which 
bear the name of the town, manufactured in the 
families of the German settlers. Germantown is a 
summer retreat for a number of citizens, and ex- 
ceptmg its airy and elevated situation, being on 
the first ridge after you leave Philadelphia, it has 
little to interest or detain strangers. From this town 
you may pass by several roads in a westwardly di- 
rection, into what is called the township line road, 
and thus vary the ride back to the city, which exhi- 
bits a fine view from the heights. Previously to 
leaving the township line road, and resummg the 
turnpike, into which it conducts you, about two 
miles from Philadelphia, you may be gratified by 
visiting "■' Upsal botanic garden," established and con- 
ducted by Bernard M'Mahon. This garden is near 
the junction of the township line and turnpike roads. 
When you have reached the city, your ride will have 
been thirteen miles. 

If, when at Germantown, you wish to extend your 
excursion, you may pass up the turnpike, through 
the village of Cresham, ascending as you proceed, to 
Chesnut-hill ;^ thence to the Perkiomen creek: a 
short distance from the bridge which crosses that 
stream, are the celebrated lead mines, well worth 
visiting. The mineralogist will be amply repaid by 
his visit to this place. 

North Western Route* 

A most delightful ride is offered by pursuing the 
following course. Having crossed the Schuylkill 



* From this place the view is extensive and picturesque. 



352 TOURS I^^ THE VICINITY. 

bridge, (High street) take the first right hand road, 
this will conduct you along the river Schuylkill, 
sometimes on its margin, at others on its high banks ; 
the tasteful villas scattered on both sides of this 
beautiful stream, added to the variegated decora- 
tions of nature, cannot fail to gratify. Having pro- 
ceeded on this road about four miles, you may either 
stop at Mendenhall's inn, or cross the river on a 
chain bridge of modern construction, a short distance 
above, and in sight of the falls, to a house of public 
entertainment, called the Falls Tavern, on the eastern 
side of the Schuylkill. The oil mill of Mr. Hagner 
at this place, may prove interesting to some. You 
are now on the Ridge road, and may either return 
by it to the city, go to Germantown, or proceed up- 
ward, passing Robeson's flour mills, on the Wissa- 
hiccon creek,* near its confluence with the Schuyl- 
kill, thence over a fine picturesque country to Spring 
Mill,! well worth visiting, near which is the vine- 
yard of the Pennsylvania Vine Company. 

You are now again on the margin of the river, and 
will certainly be gratified with the scenery pre- 
sented to view; to enjoy which, on your return to the 
city, you may, (though the road is not very good) 
having crossed the Schuylkill at the ferry, proceed 
along its shore, visiting on your way, a soap stone 
quarry, and likev/ise be interested by v/itnessing 
twelve saws ingeniously contrived to move by water, 
for cutting large blocks of marble : a short distance 
below this, you cross on what is called the Flat Rock 



* The scenery up this creek is very roraantic ; the creek pass- 
es in a serpentine course among' majestic hiiis,from the sides of 
which rocks in rude disorder, impend over the stream. 

•j- This spring- is a real curiosity. The water never freezes|| 
nor does that of the Schuylkill, for some distance above aiid- 
below ^vhcre the spring empties into it. 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 353 

bridge, built last year,"^ thence go eastwardly to the 
Ridge road, and back to Philadelphia. 

The mineralogist will not regret a scramble on ei- 
ther shore of the Schuylkill, from Spring Mill, to a 
few miles below. 

In addition to these short excursions around the 
eity, strangers, who have leisure, would be gratified 
by the following tour. First, visit Easton on the 
Delaware, the views near which place, are uncom- 
monly picturesque : one in particular, about four 
miles on this side of the town, will command atten- 
tion. From Easton to the Wind Gap or opening- 
through the Kittatinny or Blue Mountain, the dis- 
tance is about twelve miles ; a visit to that place and 
to the Water Gap, or place of passage of tiie Dela- 
ware through the same mountain, some miles to the 
east, will be amply repaid, and an examination of the 
localities will furnish the geologist with materials 
for an inquiry into the cause of those two singular 
disruptions of the great primordial ridge. From the 
gap, the rout may be to the Moravian towns of Na- 
zareth and Bethlehem, where the prnnitive manners, 
and the peculiar discipline of that religious society, 
particularly at the latter place, cannot fail to interest. 
Then proceed to Reading, where the grand Adews 
from the Schuylkill's bank enchant the beholder *. to 
Hummell's town, near to which is the curious and 
interesting Swetara cave ; to Harrisburgh, on the 
Susquehanna, recently fixed on as the future seat 
of the state government ; to Carlisle, Chambers- 
burgh and Shippensburgh. Returning through York 
and Lancaster, the stranger will be gratified by pass- 
ing through a rich and highly cultivated country. 



* This bridge is well worth, examining. 

Gg2 



:m PROJECTED IMPROVEMENTS. 

At the sea shore, Long Branch, N. J.: the Yellow 
Springs, in Chester county, and Bath, near Bristol, 
on the Delaware, invalids will find health, gaiety 
and fashion. 

Projected Improvements^ 

In IT'QO, a noble scheme was set on foot by some 
patriotic citizens of Philadelphia, to connect the 
Delaware with the western lakes by a chain of inland 
navigation : and on their suggestion, commissioners 
were appointed by law to determine the most eligible 
route, and to calculate the cost of the intended mea- 
sure. Two companies were incorporated in 1791 and 
1792, to undertake the work^ one, for connecting the 
Schuylkill and Susquehanna, a distance of seventy- 
nine miles, and the other for uniting the waters of 
the Delaware and Schuylkill, along the east bank of 
the latter river, sixteen miles to Norristown. The 
capital of each company was four hundred thousand 
dollars. An eminent engineer, from England, was 
sent for, but in the eagerness to have the work fi- 
nished, much money was expended before his arri- 
val. Upon a due examination of the ground and 
work of the Delaware and Schuylkill canal, he re- 
ported that the whole might be completed for the 
sum subscribed ; six miles were nearly completed, 
but the stockholders declined paying their instal- 
ments, and the work ceased. The legislature grant- 
ed a lottery to aid both canals ; the second class of 
which was badly managed, and thus the progress of 
the scheme was stopped, after two hundred and 
twenty-one chousand seven hundred and ten dollars 
had been expended. 

At the last session of the legislature, a law was 
passed, which it is to be hoped will have the effect 
oi finishing this useftd and important plan of internal 
navigation^ 



NUMBER OF CARRIAGES. 355- 

By the law, permission is granted for a union to 
take place between the two companies, and to open 
a complete canal and lock navigation from one or 
more pomts on the river Susquehanna to the tide 
waters on Schuylkill or Delaware, or both ; also to 
contract for supplying the city and Northern Liber- 
ties and Southward, with water, and making wet and 
dry docks. When the canal shall be completed, the 
property is to be vested in the company, for fifty 
years, and when the tolls shall exceed twenty-five 
per cent, neat annual profit, the excess shall compose 
a fund for the redemption oi the canal, so as to render 
it free. Permission is also granted to extend their 
route to Lake Erie, or other waters of any neigh- 
bouring state, by canals and lock navigation, or 
turnpike ; and to raise, by lottery, the sum of three 
hundred and ;orty thousand dollars as a sinking fund, 
on which no dividend can be raised. It is hoped and 
expected, that congress will grant a certain portion 
of the north western territory, as a fund to redeem 
the capital expended, and assist the company, by 
loans, from time to time, as the work may progress, 
either in money or in certificates of the United 
States, redeemable by said extensive territory, which 
by an mland water communication with the Atlantic, 
will become highly valuable. It is also hoped and 
expected, that future legislatures, seeing the pro- 
gress, and convinced of the necessity and benefit 
arising to the state from canals, will grant a sum of 
money per mile, whenever two or three miles may 
have been well finished and in operation. 

Number of Carriages^ at different times, in 
Philadelphia, 

In the year 1759, an accurate list was taken of the 
names of every citizen, who kept a four wheel chaite 



'^Jit> ^VUmii OF V A VlUt Ar,F.S„ 

v>t any kind ;* (Vom which it appcarcnl that thirty-sev- 
en was the whole uuiuhor. Single horse chairs were 
nvvmeroua. Iti Ifrsi, there were eighty-eight lour 
>vheeU d earriag'cs.j In 1794, tlK receiver ol duty on 
pleasiuT carriages, made theloUowing return. 
520 ('hairs and 3^ Sulkeys. 

«0 Light Waggxms. 
13r C.oachces. 

22 Ph ctona. 

3A Chariots. 

33 C.oachea. — Ti>tal, ,'^or fo\n- wheeU tl carriages. 
In 1801, when the tax ceased, there wciv, exchi- 
sivc o\ the county, 39(} lour wheeled carriugx^s, and 
A8.S two wh(cled chaises. At present there can ]>e no 
<hn\bl oi their heing nuich multiplied. The increase 
oi puhlic hacks, alone, would greatly swell the amount. 



• MS. o( Ih^e.klr 1. Nnvn«. 
\ MvS. of l*.du Sittiitierc. 



tsviNemtmirtfi trtm \ mKmaaassasmmiKaemeBmmmmmt1mmmmtKtHm0ti 



\U\{\\ \. 



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VAp,v 44., lino S, iUlo rtrr. P«.j5,v 4 f.>r /o.\\vo»»</roa(l /rAw^m. 

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f(\v i^oihW tv«<l ZcnfU-r. Tap^ 84, luxo 5« tor ^^vfora xvt-Kl C^rrc- 
^potuiifii. For tho corrootiou ol' ovwr, vv8]ioottng« iho Nmnhcr of 
u.H^l\ \o AVs-|>A]>or nnjMvssions, ^iH" i\\c Appondix. P^gr ^% line 
^ tWv 1809 w^&A l?^- r*igv 1,^^9, notA?, for 180vS iv!^«l 1804. I»aj?x- 
144s h«^ 13, <\>>m bottom, f<M' or>t>p roiul e»»r, 1*-:<{?S' ^A, in « tvw 
copios, tbo n«mo oi' ')'<mv/)4 l.i^wfws v 'i ttnuM\j^> lUc xniv» 

i\figYrKof tbo lVnnsvl>;V\n« llosnual . lino 11 Vi^m bot- 

tom, botNXVon **««>•" sn<l " bis » Klin jj,'," ;ulvi ,.'/v.r. Hugv »'^*'4, line 
4 from bvvnom, toV .S'v W n^M\ S. /:. l„ino ,'?, fwn^ i^ot(om> fov* 
ji/ih i>CAd ^ixth, lAm Hi fi'oat botix>n\>for sixth reAil.j^i/j. 



APPENOrX. 



NEW!S-l?APBrt IMPIIF.S810NS. 

In page 84, an error was committed, respecting 
the number of weekly iinpresaiona oi' News-puperB. 

The following statement is given by Mr. Uobin- 
son, in his Directory ibr 1811. 

" Eight dnily papers, distributing upwards of 8,328 
sheets; 4,500 in the morning, and 3,828 every even- 
ing. Nine papers, once a week, that distrilrute 7,058 
sheets: two, twice a week, distributing 1,992 sheets: 
two, three times a week, that distribute 1,920 sheets." 

In page 138, it is stated that Mr. Reuben Haines 
originated the idea of the Hose Companies ; but I 
now learn that the name of Hoijkrts Vaux, ought 
to have been connected with that ol his Iriend, on the 
occasion. The original plan of a Hose Company waK 
sketched l)y him, with estimates ol costs, ike. andhia 
persev«rance ynd judgment grently aided in organ- 
izing t!ic troublesome and novel undertaking. 'I'hc 
other active and e.irly members ol the fust Hose 
Company, were Wiilinm Morrison, Joseph Lea, 
Samuel Hazard, J. P. I'arke, 

The City Councils, by a recent ordinance, have 
afforded a partial aid to the Hose Companies, by the 



358 APPENDIX. 

grant of Si, 000, but the entire expense should be 
defrayed by the public. It is certainly enough I'l the 
youth give their time, and risque their health and 
lives, in extinguishing fires, without being subject to 
the least expense. 

The Church of St. Michael, in north Fifth street, 
belonging to the Lutherans, was omitted among the 
places of worship. It was built in 1743, and is 72 
feet, by 44 ; and 22 feet high. 

Among the notices of " printing," p. 86, the Bible, 
printed and published by Robert Aitken, of Phila- 
delphia, ought to have been mentioned, ^'commen- 
ced it in 1781, and finished it in 1782 : it was in 
12mo, and was recommended to the public patronage 
by Congress. It was neatly executed. 

Page 21, 4th line from the bottom, after the word 
^' formed," substitute the following for what is given. 
= — " each of 396 feet : two streets, viz. Twelfth and 
Thirteenth, were added, each 50 feet broad : (rom 
Thirteenth to Broad street, the distance is 528 feet ; 
and through the middle of this square, Juniper 
street, 28 feet broad, was laid out by order oi the 
executive council during the war." Bro?id street was 
originally, he, &c. 



J i i 



O viti 



